Higher Grip Strength Is Associated With Reduced Risk of Incident Symptomatic Hand Osteoarthritis: Data From Two...

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Osteoarthritis Research
• Public Health

Background:

• Grip strength is a modifiable factor linked to chronic disease prevention.
• Low grip strength may increase the risk of hand osteoarthritis (HOA) due to compromised joint stability and inflammation.
• HOA affects millions globally, causing significant health and economic burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between grip strength and the incidence of symptomatic hand osteoarthritis (HOA).
• To provide evidence for targeted preventive strategies against HOA.

Main Methods:

• Prospective cohort studies (Xiangya Osteoarthritis Study and UK Biobank) and Mendelian randomization analyses were conducted.
• Participants without baseline HOA were included.
• Genetic instruments for grip strength were derived from genome-wide association studies.

Main Results:

• Higher grip strength quartiles were associated with significantly lower odds of incident symptomatic HOA in both studies.
• Mendelian randomization analyses confirmed a protective effect of genetically determined grip strength against incident HOA.
• Odds ratios for symptomatic HOA decreased with increasing grip strength quartiles.

Conclusions:

• Increased grip strength is associated with a reduced risk of developing symptomatic hand osteoarthritis.
• Interventions to enhance grip strength could serve as a preventive measure for HOA.
• These findings support strategies to improve grip strength to mitigate the burden of HOA.