Arthritis Isn’t Just for the Old, Doctor Tells Youths!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

As the world commemorates World Arthritis Day, Nigerian health advocate and medical doctor, Dr. Chinonso Egemba—popularly known as Aproko Doctor—has urged young people to stop seeing arthritis as a disease that only affects the elderly.

What He Said:

• In a public awareness post, Dr. Egemba warned that arthritis now affects many young Nigerians, especially those with sedentary lifestyles, untreated injuries, or autoimmune conditions.
• “Young people think arthritis is a disease of old age, but we’re seeing increasing cases in people under 40,” he stated.

Key Highlights:

• He emphasized the role of poor posture, excess weight, and lack of physical activity in early joint degeneration.
• Egemba also highlighted how untreated joint injuries from sports or accidents can lead to chronic inflammation and arthritis.

Why It Matters:

• The warning challenges a common myth and aims to get youths to take joint health seriously early on.
• It encourages regular exercise, good posture habits, and early medical consultation for joint pain.

Recommendations:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Stay physically active
• Don’t ignore persistent joint pain
• Avoid self-medicating with painkillers

Citations:

1. Aproko Doctor via X – @aproko_do
2. WHO – www.who.int
3. Nigerian Health Watch – www.nigeriahealthwatch.com

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