Vitamin D Receptor Gene and Hand Osteoarthritis in Finnish Women
Author Information
Author(s): Svetlana Solovieva, Ari Hirvonen, Päivi Siivola, Tapio Vehmas, Katariina Luoma, Hilkka Riihimäki, Päivi Leino-Arjas
Primary Institution: Finnish Institute of Occupational Health
Hypothesis
Are polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene associated with the risk of hand osteoarthritis in Finnish women?
Conclusion
The study suggests that vitamin D receptor gene polymorphisms may influence the risk of symmetrical hand osteoarthritis, particularly in relation to calcium intake.
Supporting Evidence
- Women with the VDR aa genotype had nearly double the odds of symmetrical hand OA compared to those with the AA genotype.
- Carriers of the VDR t allele had almost half the odds of developing symmetrical hand OA.
- The presence of the aT haplotype combined with low calcium intake significantly increased the odds of symmetrical OA.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether certain genes related to vitamin D affect the chances of getting hand arthritis in Finnish women, especially if they don't get enough calcium.
Methodology
The study involved examining radiographs of hands and determining VDR genotypes through PCR-based methods in a sample of Finnish women aged 45-63.
Potential Biases
Potential for non-differential misclassification of osteoarthritis due to subjective radiographic assessments.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and the reliance on self-reported dietary intake may introduce recall bias.
Participant Demographics
Finnish women aged 45-63, including 295 dentists and 248 teachers.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 0.38–0.94
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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