The Association between the Duration of DM and Blood Sugar Control with Osteoarthritis Severity Among Patients Attending the Orthopedic Clinics at King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah, Saudi Arabia

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) has become the most common chronic condition affecting the knee.Evidence suggests a possible link between diabetes mellitus (DM) and the amplification of OA symptoms and severity. Objectives:The aim of this research is to determine the association between the duration of diabetes mellitus (DM) and blood sugar control, with the severity of knee osteoarthritis (KOA). Material and Method:A retrospective cross-sectional study design was used with a sample size 211 diabetic patients with knee osteoarthritis who attended the orthopedic clinic at King Abdullah Medical City (KAMC).The collection of data encompassing age, gender, medical history associated with diabetes mellitus, and knee osteoarthritis was collected from patient medical records, and the grading of knee osteoarthritis severity was determined through the application of the Kellgren and Lawrence system.Results: There was a good positive correlation between HbA1c and the severity of osteoarthritis (r = 0.015).The severity of knee osteoarthritis was higher among the patients who had diabetes for >10 years. Conclusion:Research found a strong link between high HbA1c levels and the severity of knee osteoarthritis.Long-term diabetes patients had more severe osteoarthritis symptoms.Based on the study findings, we recommend implementing educational programs on osteoarthritis awareness for individuals with diabetes.Osteoarthritis risk factors can fall into two categories: non-modifiable and modifiable.Certain elements, such as age, body