A nurse is reinforcing teaching to a client who was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis about the disease process. Which of the following statements about the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis should the nurse include in the teaching?

Osteoarthritis is characterized by rapid bone growth around the joints, which enhances joint movement and reduces discomfort.

Osteoarthritis is the result of repeated joint infections that lead to the accumulation of scar tissue in the joints, causing stiffness and discomfort.

Osteoarthritis is caused by the gradual loss of joint cartilage due to wear and tear, resulting in bone-on-bone contact and joint pain.

Osteoarthritis is primarily an autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the synovial joints, leading to inflammation and pain.