Why Do People Get Dupuytren’s Disease?

Dupuytren’s disease is a little complicated; it lacks evidence for the exact cause, but research indicates some risk factors. Genetics is one of those risk factors; the disease is hereditary as it can be passed down in genes through different generations of families. 

Research suggests that people of a North European or Scandinavian descent are more likely to be affected. If your family has a North European or a Scandinavian background, you may be at a higher risk of developing this condition.

Furthermore, statistics indicate that people with diabetes or a family history of diabetes may be at higher risk of contracting the disease. Diabetes reduces the blood level in your body, which has been linked to a possible cause for Dupuytren’s contracture disease.

What is common in the disease?

While the disease is uncommon, it has some common risk factors.  There are an estimated 15 million Americans who suffer from Dupuytren’s contracture disease. These people are likely to either have descended from ancestors in Northern Europe or have a family history of diabetes.

Males dominate the 15 million affected by the disease; it is more likely to affect males than females. Caucasians are also more likely to contract the disease. Statistics show that Caucasian males make up most of the 15 million Americans who suffer from the condition. It is, however, still possible for anyone to get the disease.

Among the affected 15 million Americans, most of them smoke or drink alcohol. Some people develop early symptoms due to drinking or smoking habits.