An analysis of differences in kellgren-lawrence scores between patients with knee osteoarthritis and class II obesity versus those without obesity

Individuals with overweight or obesity are at a higher risk of developing knee osteoarthritis (OA) compared to those with a normal body mass index (BMI). This increased risk is attributed to metabolic effects and the excessive mechanical load on the joint, which escalates with weight gain. Previous studies have established a correlation between the higher BMI and increased severity of joint damage in patients with knee OA. This analytic, comparative study utilized cross-sectional design to investigate the difference in Kellgren-Lawrence (KL) Score between patients with and without obesity who have knee osteoarthritis (OA) The analysis was conducted using secondary data from medical records and knee X-rays at Cianjur General District Hospital during 2020. A total of 50 patients were included, with 25 patients in each group (OA with obesity and OA without obesity). The majority of participants were female (80%), aged 56-65 years old (52%), and had a BMI classified as class II obesity (50%). KL Score ranged from grade 1 to 3. Data analysis using the non-parametric Mann- Whitney U test revealed a statistically significant difference in KL Score between the two groups (pvalue=0.000). The increased mechanical stress associated with obesity is hypothesized to be a causative agent that aggravates joint damage, as evidenced by the more severe degree of the Kellgren- Lawrence Score in the obese population. In conclusion, a significant difference in the severity of OA Genu degree, based on the Kellgren-Lawrence scoring system, was found between obese and non-obese patients.