ABSTRACT Objectives Exposure to sex hormones during the early stages of fetal development in the prenatal period is thought to affect the length ratio of the second and fourth fingers (2D:4D). The 2D:4D ratio remains a subject of significant interest, particularly in relation to diseases and conditions linked to gender differences. This study aims to compare the 2D:4D ratio of individuals with generalized joint hypermobility (GJH) to the ratio of individuals without GJH in a population of both male and female participants. Methods The study was conducted on 180 individuals (100 females), including 85 with GJH and 95 without GJH (controls). Joint hypermobility was assessed using the Beighton score. The 2D:4D ratio was calculated using a digital caliper. In addition, the height, weight, and body mass index of the participants were calculated. Results The 2D:4D ratio was significantly higher in individuals with GJH compared to controls. In males, the 2D:4D ratio was higher in both the right and left hands in the GJH group compared to controls ( p < 0.05). In females, the 2D:4D ratio was also significantly higher in both hands in the GJH ( p < 0.05). The Beighton total score showed moderate positive correlations with right‐ and left‐hand 2D:4D ratios ( r = 0.49 and r = 0.38, respectively; p < 0.001). Conclusion The 2D:4D ratio can be used as a potential biomarker for GJH. It is thought that the concentration of sex hormones in the prenatal period (2D:4D ratio) may affect joint hypermobility (connective tissue). Trial Registration ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT07157930
Zorlular et al. (Sun,) studied this question.