Unraveling the causal landscape of intervertebral disc degeneration: A Mendelian randomization analysis of 108 traits

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a main contributor to low back pain, often considered a chronic condition. This highlights the importance of early identification of potential risk factors and implementation of preventive measures. Therefore, comprehending the causal factors underlying IVDD is crucial. We employed independent genetic variants from 108 traits as instrumental variables to analyze the causal relationships between these factors and IVDD risk. Several tests for heterogeneity and pleiotropy confirmed the validity of the data. Inverse-variance weighted model results indicated that fat distribution-related indicators were significantly positively associated with IVDD, such as "basal metabolic rate" (odds ratios [OR] = 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.36-1.63); "body fat percentage" (OR = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.22-1.53); "body mass index" (OR = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.21-1.38); "hip circumference" (OR = 1.24; 95% CI = 1.14-1.33), and "trunk fat mass" (OR = 1.27; 95% CI = 1.17-1.37). Additionally, there was a negative causal relationship between usual walking pace (OR = 0.45; 95% CI = 0.26-0.76) and IVDD. Maintaining a healthy weight, reducing body fat, and engaging in regular physical activity such as frequent walking may help prevent or delay the onset of IVDD in individuals who are susceptible to the condition.