Bhaichung Bhutia, former captain of India's football team, joined healthcare major Sanofi India's 'Steps that Count' initiative to raise awareness on knee osteoarthritis. The initiative encourages patients to live well with osteoarthritis by following the three important steps of Talk- Control- Exercise.

According to Karthik Pingle, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon, Apollo Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad, ''After diabetes, osteoarthritis is considered the second most prevalent disease in the age group of 30-55 years. Of all the joints, osteoarthritis of the knee joint is the most common. A number of factors such as sedentary lifestyle, rising obesity and poor dietary habits contribute to the high prevalence of knee osteoarthritis.''

Knee osteoarthritis is now striking people at a younger age and leading to chronic disability and compromised quality of life.

Speaking on the occasion Senthilnathan Mohanasundaram, director- Medical Affairs, Sanofi India stated, ''With over 15 million patients, India has the second largest osteoarthritis patient base- women forming a large portion of this population3 Bhaichung Bhutia support Sanofi’s ‘Steps that Count’ initiative that aims to raise awareness on knee osteoarthritis among young arthritic patients (30-55 years age). Bhaichung’s testimonial and experience with viscosupplementation will motivate patients to explore treatment options with their specialists and lead an active and better quality life.''

Shares of the company declined Rs 8.75, or 0.27%, to trade at Rs 3,288.50. The total volume of shares traded was 348 at the BSE (3.22 p.m., Monday).