Obesity a leading cause of knee osteoarthritis New research from the Kolling Institute and the University of Sydney reveals that obesity, having a knee injury and occupational risks such as shift work and lifting heavy loads are
developing knee osteoarthritis by 14 percent across the population. “We urge governments and the healthcare sector to implement policy reforms that address occupational risks, subsidise knee injury prevention programs, and promote healthy eating and physical activity to reduce obesity,” she said. Co-author and Kolling Institute researcher Professor David Hunter said the research identified some key trends. “Women were twice as likely to develop the condition than men, and older age was only mildly associated with increased risk,” he said.
primary causes of knee osteoarthritis. Published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, the study was led by Dr Vicky Duong and A/Professor Christina Abdel Shaheed from Sydney Musculoskeletal Health. Using data from 130 studies involving people from 20-to-80 years old, the researchers examined over 150 risk factors to determine which were associated with an increased risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. Knee osteoarthritis is a debilitating condition that affects over 500 million people around the world and is a leading cause of disability. The research found that addressing lifestyle factors, such as losing weight or adopting a better diet, could significantly improve people’s health. The study also found that following a mediterranean diet, drinking green tea and eating dark bread could reduce the risk of developing knee osteoarthritis. Lead author and Kolling researcher Dr Duong said eliminating obesity and knee injuries could potentially reduce the risk of hydration checks, games and a ‘Hand Hygiene Jingle’ performance by the RNSH Child Care Centre Choir. Ryde Hospital showcased hand hygiene activities. At Macquarie Hospital, outdoor activities included the “Putt2x” game, with coffee and doughnuts for staff. Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital ran a roving bingo, “Spin the Wheel” and quizzes. Northern Beaches Community Mental Health Services combined activities with International Nurses Day for a joint celebration. Clinical Nurse Consultant Mae Sia emphasised the importance of ehnacing the hand hygiene program. “Hand hygiene is one of the simplest yet most powerful precautions we can take to protect our patients, our colleagues, and ourselves,” she said. “Thank you to the infection prevention andcontrol team, IPAC champions, sponsors and all staff who contributed.”
Healthy lifestyle can reduce knee osteoarthritis risk
World Hand Hygiene Day 2025 celebrated Across NSLHD NSLHD recently marked World Hand Hygiene Day 2025, with events led by the district’s infection prevention and control (IPAC) team. The theme, “It might be gloves. It’s always hand hygiene,” reminded staff of the ongoing importance of good hand hygiene in all settings. Royal North Shore Hospital held skin
Andrea Taylor, Director, Mental Health Drug And Alcohol joined staff for the celebrations at Macquarie Hospital
NSLHD IPAC Director, Jo Tallon popped by the stalls at Royal North Shore Hospital
NSLHD NEWS | ISSUE 10| 13 JUNE 2025
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