The role of gender, menopause and sex hormones in hand osteoarthritis

Disease - Osteoarthritis

Lead applicant - Dr Malvika Gulati

Organisation - University of Oxford

Type of grant - Clinical Research Fellowship

Status of grant - Active

Amount of the original award - £254,294.70

Start date - 1 August 2018

Reference - 21604

Public Summary

What are the aims of this research?

The aim of this research is to understand the impact that gender, menopause and sex hormones have on the duration and severity of hand osteoarthritis.

Why is this research important?

Hand osteoarthritis is more common in women, often developing around the menopause (the time when menstrual periods stop), suggesting changes in hormones may be important in its development. This study will investigate whether there is a link between these hormonal changes and development of hand osteoarthritis.

To achieve this, the research team will look at two existing community-based groups with hand osteoarthritis. These groups have clinical information, X-rays and blood results going back many years. Using this information, the researchers will look for predictors and different durations of hand osteoarthritis. Additionally, to confirm these findings they will observe a new group of patients for six months, who will record daily pain ratings on mobile phones, as well as attend regular hospital visits to gather additional medical information and have blood tests.

How will the findings benefit patients?

This research will improve understanding of this condition, with the aim of developing better information for patients at time of diagnosis, and better tests and treatments for the condition.