When Estrogen Decreases, Knees Suffer: Latest Global Study Reveals Post-Menopausal Joint Risks

1. The World is Shocked by a "133% Increase"

An article published on July 27, 2025, by UOL VivaBem introduces a large meta-analysis published in BMJ Global Health. The research team analyzed data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021, reporting an "emergency" situation where new OA cases in postmenopausal women increased by 133% compared to 1990, and years lived with disability (YLD) increased by 142%, impacting quality of life.

2. Why Joints Become More Fragile After Menopause

"Estrogen is a crucial hormone for cartilage metabolism and anti-inflammation. When it rapidly decreases after menopause, joints are exposed to inflammation, accelerating wear," explains rheumatologist Isabella Monteiro. Furthermore, women aged 45-64 experience concentrated pain in the knees and fingers, with a disability rate twice that of men in the same age group.

3. Obesity as a "Fuel"

The study also points out that the obesity rate among postmenopausal women increased from **17% to 21%**. Weight gain increases mechanical stress on joints, and inflammatory cytokines secreted by adipose tissue accelerate the progression of OA.

4. Real Cries Spread on Social Media

Within 24 hours of the study's release, "

trended in the Brazilian sphere of X (formerly Twitter), with posts like

• "I need to take my mother's knee pain more seriously" (@saudeemfoco)

• "133% is at epidemic levels, isn't it?" (@vivafitbrasil)
  spreading rapidly.X (formerly Twitter). Health pages on Facebook also raised awareness, stating, "Osteoarthritis is not 'aging' but a treatable disease."Facebook. On Threads, younger generations are seen discussing it as a "future personal issue."Threads.

5. "Lifestyle Update" as the Best Vaccine

Tiago Mendes, a physiotherapist at the Federal University of Rio Grande, emphasizes that "strength training + aerobic exercise + weight management are the strongest primary prevention." Key points for practice are:

1. 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (brisk walking, swimming, etc.)

2. Twice a week lower body strength training (squats, leg press, etc.)

3. Mediterranean diet for anti-inflammation and weight loss

4. For those over 45, annual bone density and knee X-ray checks

6. The Forefront of Treatment

When symptoms progress, treatments such as hyaluronic acid injections, PRP therapy, and HIFU can alleviate pain. In advanced OA, many cases see dramatic improvements in quality of life with artificial knee joint replacement surgery.

7. Latest Discussions on Hormone Replacement Therapy

In July 2025, the U.S. FDA advisory committee re-evaluated the long-term safety of HRT. The focus is on balancing the benefits of bone and joint protection against the risk of breast cancer, with research on next-generation "tissue-selective estrogen" also advancing.

8. Policy Proposals—Correcting the Gendered Health Gap

The World Health Organization (WHO) already classifies OA as a "lifestyle disease."

• Primary prevention: Strength education in school physical education

• Secondary prevention: Introducing knee and hand function questionnaires in health checkups for women over 50

• Tertiary prevention: Establishing community rehabilitation centers and employment support

How to bridge the reality of "career interruptions due to pain" with technology and systems—that will be a sustainability indicator for post-menopausal society.

Conclusion
The figure of a 133% increase is alarming, but OA is "treatable aging." With the right knowledge and actions, you can reclaim your "freedom to walk" in the future. Take a step today to protect your joints for tomorrow.