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Dupuytrens Contracture

All articles tagged with #dupuytrens contracture

health2 years ago

The Neanderthal Connection to 'Viking Disease'

Neanderthal genes are linked to an increased risk of Dupuytren's contracture, also known as "Viking disease," which causes the fingers of one or both hands to freeze into a permanently bent position. The condition is most common in men of Scandinavian or northern European descent and is rarely seen in individuals of African descent. Researchers discovered 61 genetic risk factors for the disease, of which three were inherited from Neanderthals. The discovery highlights the health consequences of intermingling with Neanderthals, who share up to 98.5% of our DNA.

health2 years ago

The Neanderthal Connection to Viking Disease

Researchers have found that the genetic origins of "Viking disease," a condition that affects older Northern European men, can be traced back to Neanderthals. The disease, also known as Dupuytren's contracture, causes fingers to lock in a bent position and is significantly more common in men than women. The study identified 61 genetic risk factors for the disease, with three of the strongest risk factors inherited from Neanderthals. The findings provide further evidence of the consequences of intermingling between Neanderthals and modern humans.