Care pathways for people with carpal tunnel syndrome in France and use of the occupational disease recognition system. Results from the 2020 and 2021 editions of the Santé publique France Barometer
According to the Santé publique France Barometer, in 2021, the prevalence of reported pain related to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) was estimated at 10% among women and 9% among men in France. CCS is the second most commonly recognized occupational disease by the General Social Security System (21% in 2023). Despite the significance of this condition in France, there are no studies describing the care pathway for people with CTS or documenting the reporting of the condition as an occupational disease. The objective is to describe the care pathway for people with SCC in mainland France, to assess the proportion of SCC cases where the patient suspects an occupational cause, and to document the reasons for the condition not being reported as an occupational disease, based on data from the 2020 and 2021 editions of the Santé publique France Barometer. Just over one in ten people aged 20 to 64 report having suffered from SCC in the past five years, with women making up the majority. Among them, only six out of ten report having consulted at least one doctor. In the vast majority of cases, a primary care physician was consulted (86% [82%; 90%]); in just over one-third of cases, a rheumatologist (36% [31%; 42%]) and a surgeon (36% [30%; 41%]). Among those suffering from SCC, 15% [14%; 17%] report having undergone surgery. More than seven out of ten people with SCC state that work is the probable cause of the condition, but among them, only one in ten reported it as an occupational disease (which was accepted in nearly eight out of ten cases). This study documents the care pathways of individuals with SCC in mainland France and the process of filing—or not filing—a claim for occupational disease. Regarding care pathways, certain findings—such as the lack of healthcare utilization—would require further investigation. Regarding claims for occupational disease, it is recommended to strengthen training for general practitioners on occupational diseases and to continue public awareness campaigns on musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs).
Author(s): Briere J, Fouquet N
Publishing year: 2026
Pages: 43 p.
Collection: Studies and Surveys
In relation to
Our latest news
news
Etienne Pot Appointed Interim Director General of Santé publique France
news
Arboviral Diseases in 2026: Mosquito-Borne Diseases Continue to Spread This...
news