Variation of Pain Intensity with Smoking in Knee Osteoarthritis in Males

Abstract

Background: Knee osteoarthritis is a significant cause of disability, affecting daily living activities predominantly in females but also impacting males. Various factors contribute to its development, including smoking, yet data on its effect on the male population is sparse. Objective: To explore the relationship between smoking and pain intensity in males with moderate-stage knee osteoarthritis. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, enrolling 71 male participants aged 30 to 75 years with grade 2 knee osteoarthritis, diagnosed according to the Kellgren and Lawrence scale. Participants were categorized into smokers and non-smokers. Data on smoking habits and pain severity, assessed using the numeric pain rating scale, were collected through questionnaires. The association between smoking and pain intensity was analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test, with a significance level set at P<0.05. Results: Out of 71 participants, 36 (50.7%) were smokers, and 35 (49.3%) were non-smokers. Severe pain was reported by 25 smokers, while 26 non-smokers experienced moderate pain. The analysis revealed a significant association between smoking and increased pain severity (P<0.05), with a direct correlation between the number of cigarettes smoked and pain intensity. Conclusion: The study identified a significant association between smoking and higher pain intensity in male patients with knee osteoarthritis. These findings suggest that smoking cessation should be a key component of osteoarthritis management strategies to alleviate pain and improve quality of life in affected individuals.