I actually think its a big negative.
Having had radiotherapy treatment I am very happy with the progress, the nodules have stopped growing and have reduced in size.
There are reasons to be optimistic, people are working towards a solution, there are interesting recent developments and relatively new products available.
I do agree that impact/trauma/stress to the hands is likely to have the greatest impact. I am certain my own condition developed because of my background in physical education and renovating a large house in France over a number of years.