Can the length of fingers, legs and arms and creases in ear lobes indicate the likelihood of developing certain health issues later in life? According to much research: absolutely.
Research backs what may sound like unlikely connections between body traits and health issues. Here are examples of odd associations between body clues and what they may mean for a person’s future health.
Height and Longevity
Tall people may need to stop teasing their shorter counterparts, according to a study published in the Western Journal of Medicine (May, 2002), which summarized the findings of more than 25 years of personal and literature research. Extensive data taken from animal studies show that people with smaller bodies often live longer and have delayed onset of chronic diseases.
People living the longest include the Japanese, Hong Kong Chinese and Greeks, all shorter and weighing less than northern Europeans and North Americans. Other factors affecting health and longevity include weight, regular exercise and various health practices. Animal and human data suggest, however, that larger body size independently reduces longevity.
Earlobe Crease and Heart Disease
A study of 247 patients showed a significant association between an earlobe crease and coronary heart disease. Scientists offered no explanation for this link but suggested it should be considered a factor in determining those patients who may be at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease. Those with the earlobe crease should take extra care to reduce heart disease risks by making healthy lifestyle choices.
Finger Length and Prostate Cancer
Finger length may indicate a man’s risk of developing prostate cancer, according to a study in the British Journal of Cancer (July 26, 2011). The 15-year study involving 1,524 prostate cancer patients along with 3,044 healthy control cases found that men whose index fingers were longer than their ring finger were 33 percent less likely to have prostate cancer. Researchers say the levels of sex hormones in the womb relates to the relative length of the index finger and ring fingers. Less testosterone equates to a longer index finger, which makes researchers believe being exposed to less testosterone before birth may help protect against prostate cancer later in life.
Arm Length and Alzheimer’s
How’s your reach? Women with the shortest arm spans may be 1-1/2 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those with longer reaches, according to a study published in the journal Neurology (2008). Researchers believe nutritional deficiencies early in life during critical growth periods may be behind this link, and may also predispose a person to cognitive declines later in life. Note: measure your arm span by spreading your arms parallel to the floor; shortest spans measured less than 60 inches.
CONNECT THE DOTS
To help reduce your chance of heart disease, follow guidelines on the American Heart Association website. Tips for healthy living that may add years to your life can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and for information on symptoms and treatment options for Alzheimer’s visit the National Institutes of Health.
PREVIOUS POST
