It used to be the number one disease of the elderly, now even 18-year-olds have it

Arthritis (joint inflammation) has long been considered a disease associated with aging. However, new and alarming data suggest that this painful condition is now rapidly spreading among young people. According to one study, more than 20% of young people aged 18-24 experience arthritis symptoms. Experts believe that the real culprit behind this epidemic lies entirely in our modern lifestyle.

"We used to think of arthritis as a problem for middle-aged and older people. But the new report shows that young people are also affected," says pharmacist Noel Weeks, highlighting the scale of the threat. The figures are alarming: Nearly half of adults aged 18 to 34 say they experience joint pain or discomfort regularly.

So why has an "old people's disease" become so prevalent among young people? According to experts, the answer lies in three fundamental pillars of our daily lives:

1. Inactivity and poor posture:

"The Perfect Storm" Experts say the root of the problem lies in long hours spent in front of screens. "Many young people spend hours hunched over their laptops or phones at home, at work, and even during their free time. This creates a 'perfect storm' of poor posture, back and neck tension, and, over time, arthritis," says Weeks.

2. Wrong Exercise: "Harm Instead of Benefit"

Trying to compensate for a sedentary lifestyle with sports can sometimes make the situation worse.

"Skipping warm-ups, doing strength exercises with incorrect technique, or overloading joints will do more harm than good. Physical activity is important, but it should be safe," explains Weeks.

3. Nutrition: "Inflammation-inducing diet"

Modern eating habits are another major contributing factor to inflammation. "Many 'quick snacks,' namely fast food, sweets, and processed foods, cause chronic inflammation throughout the body, including the joints," says Weeks. "When you add excess weight to this, the stress on the joints doubles."

5 golden rules for preventing arthritis at a young age

Fortunately, experts point out that preventing this condition relies on a few simple but effective steps:

Move often: If you sit for long periods of time, stand up and stretch or take a short walk every hour.

Pay attention to your posture: Make sure your back is straight, your shoulders back, and your feet flat on the floor while working. Avoid using your phone in bed.

Exercise safely: Always warm up before exercising. If you're going to a gym, get help from a trainer at least once to learn proper technique.

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet: Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes, and whole grains in your diet. Eat fatty fish and lean meats.

Don't ignore pain : If you have a sharp pain that doesn't go away after exercise or that starts suddenly, don't accept this as "normal" and consult a doctor.