Higher FT4 Levels Increase Knee OA Risk, Research Suggests

Rheumatology Advisor (1/10, Saha) reported research found that “higher free thyroxine (FT4) levels may increase the risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA), with effects more pronounced among individuals with obesity or other factors contributing to greater joint loading.” The investigators said the “study extends the existing evidence from genetic and animal studies with data from the general population, supporting the protective effect of reduced thyroid hormone concentrations on the pathogenesis of OA.” The findings were published in Osteoarthritis and Cartilage.