1. BARKAT ALI - Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University.
2. ZAHIDA MEMON - Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ziauddin University.
3. MIRZA TASAWER BAIG - Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ziauddin University.
4. MUHAMMAD LATIF - Department of Orthopedic, Sindh Govt. Hospital Laiquatabad.
5. MARYAM AHMED - Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Karachi.
6. SYED ZIA UL HASNAIN - Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Karachi.
Osteoarthritis (OA) constitutes a significant public health challenge, imposing substantial burdens on individuals and healthcare systems globally. Characterized by progressive degeneration of articular cartilage, OA manifests as chronic joint pain, functional limitations, and diminished quality of life. The prevalence and impact of OA necessitate increased public awareness and comprehensive management strategies. Objective: Employ a qualitative research method involving interviews with osteoarthritis patients at Civil Hospital, Karachi, to gain insights into their dietary practices and related knowledge. Method: To investigate dietary practices among osteoarthritis patients, a 4-month cross-sectional study was conducted at Civil Hospital's Orthopedic and OPD. Data were collected from 100 patients using a pre-tested questionnaire administered through convenient sampling. Statistical analysis using SPSS 24.0 involved calculating frequencies and employing chi-square tests to explore potential associations between variables. Result: Higher levels of education were found to be positively associated with greater knowledge of dietary practices, which in turn was associated with slower disease progression in osteoarthritis patients. This study identified a significant linkage between educational attainment, patient understanding of dietary recommendations, and the rate of disease advancement in individuals with osteoarthritis. Conclusion: This study suggests a potential link between patients' educational level and their knowledge and behavior regarding dietary practices relevant to osteoarthritis. Notably, findings indicate that inadequate knowledge about the disease may contribute to poorer dietary choices and potentially exacerbate joint pain and disease progression. Further research is necessary to establish clearer causal relationships and inform targeted interventions.
Knowledge, Osteoarthritis, Joint Pain, Attitude, Dietary Practices.