Sex differences in osteoarthritis of the hip and knee.

The prevalence, incidence, and severity of osteoarthritis are different in women than in men. Women are more likely than men to suffer from osteoarthritis,and women experience more severe arthritis in the knee. Genetics, anatomy,and prior knee injury are risk factors for developing osteoarthritis. Although the presentation of osteoarthritis does not differ between men and women,symptom severity does. Additionally, women are three times less likely than men to undergo hip or knee arthroplasty. Patient education, particularly for women, must be improved so that women with osteoarthritis who are candidates for hip and knee arthroplasty not only receive treatment but also receive it in a timely manner.