Replacing Our Body Parts.

The article reports on an expected increase in the demand for joint replacement in the U.S. in the next 25 years. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, first-time total knee replacement surgeries and total hip replacements could soar by 673% and 174%, respectively, by 2030. The factors behind the trend would include the baby boom generation and the prevalence of obesity. Revision joint replacement will see dramatic growth and increase health care costs. Healing injured knees and joints earlier in life could aid in reducing the demand for replacement surgeries as individuals age.