Which of the following is NOT a risk factor for osteoarthritis?

• A. Bacteria
• B. Aging
• C. Obesity
• D. Joint Trauma

Answer: (A)

Osteoarthritis arises mainly from wear-and-tear and mechanical/biological factors that impair cartilage over time. Aging increases the likelihood of degenerative changes because the cartilage’s repair capacity declines with age. Obesity adds excessive stress to weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, and also fuels low-grade inflammation that can accelerate cartilage damage. Joint trauma from injuries such as ligament tears or meniscal damage can alter joint mechanics and initiate degenerative processes leading to OA.

Bacteria are not a risk factor for osteoarthritis. Infections in a joint cause septic arthritis, which is a different condition characterized by acute inflammation from infection and requires antibiotics and often drainage. OA is noninfectious and develops gradually from cumulative wear and tear and biomechanical factors.