People usually want to be taller. However, the long neck does not have that advantage. Studies have shown that taller people are more at risk of various diseases. However, it has previously been questioned whether a person’s height is related to many diseases, from heart disease to cancer. In the new study, researchers sought to understand the situation by looking separately at links between various diseases and a person’s actual height, and their predicted height based on their genetics.
THE MOST COMPREHENSIVE RESEARCH
The scientists used data from the VA Million Veteran Program in the US, including genetic and health information from more than 200,000 white adults and more than 50,000 black adults. The study examined more than a thousand conditions and traits, resulting in the most comprehensive study of height and disease to date.
HIGH RISK OF HEART DISEASES AND CHOLESTEROL
The results confirmed previous findings from smaller studies that being taller is linked to a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, varicose veins, and a lower risk of coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
CAN CAUSE SKIN AND BONE INFECTIONS
The researchers also uncovered new associations between being taller and a higher risk of peripheral neuropathy, which is caused by damage to the nerves in the arms and legs, as well as skin and bone infections, such as leg and foot ulcers.