Stem Cell Therapy in Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most prevalent chronic degenerative joint disease involving articular cartilage and is a frequent cause of chronic joint pain, loss of function, and disability [1]. In men ages more than 50 years, osteoarthritis represents the second leading cause of work disability. Its incidence has doubled in women and tripled in men over the last 20 years [2]. The prevalence and incidence of osteoarthritis are presumed to accelerate with increase in life expectancy & sports activity of the general population, as well as the progressive nature of disease itself [3]. Furthermore, osteoarthritis is responsible for approximately 2% of all public health expenses [4] and large indirect costs derived from productivity decrease [5].