Hand Osteoarthritis: “A Global Epidemic” Affecting Millions, Specialist Warns
PARIS – A leading French rheumatologist is sounding the alarm about a rapidly growing health crisis: hand osteoarthritis. Professor Maheu of Saint-Antoine hospital warns that this debilitating condition, already impacting an estimated 10 million people in France, is becoming a ”global epidemic.” The condition, characterized by cartilage degradation and often manifesting as painful erosions, disproportionately affects women, with 80 to 90 percent of sufferers being female.
While often dismissed as an unavoidable part of aging – a sentiment Professor Maheu describes as a common and damaging refrain (“My mother had some, I have some. Yoru mom had some, you have some. Okay, so there’s nothing to say“) – the impact on daily life is profound.Recent studies conducted at Saint-Antoine hospital reveal that 54% of patients struggle with writing, 20% with carrying even light loads (over 4 kg), and 10% experience difficulty managing their medications. Worryingly, eating disorders are four times more common among those afflicted.
“It really is a disease that can cause problems in everyday life,” Professor Maheu emphasizes, highlighting the notable functional discomfort and aesthetic impairment experienced by patients. Beyond physical limitations, the visible damage to the hands carries a significant psychological burden.
New recommendations from the French Society of Rheumatology focus on individualized treatment plans based on osteoarthritis type and symptom severity, aiming to improve function, reduce disability, and limit dependence. The cornerstone of care remains non-pharmacological interventions, including exercises with a foam ball, the use of orthotics (especially for rhizarthrosis, as recommended by the Society), and ergonomic adjustments.
Drug treatments require caution, especially in older patients.Professor Maheu warns that anti-inflammatory drugs can trigger acute kidney failure in those over 80, perhaps leading to fatal consequences.Chondroitin sulfate (800mg daily) is presented as a better-tolerated alternative, showing promise in alleviating pain and functional discomfort.
The specialist also issued a strong caution regarding food supplements, citing a lack of quality control and evidence of effectiveness. A recent analysis revealed that 19 out of 25 tested products contained substantially less of the advertised active ingredients – in some cases, up to 60% less. Pharmacists are being urged to play a crucial role in guiding patients towards evidence-based treatments, such as recommending medication over potentially substandard supplements.
