Height might be an attractive feature, but according to researchers, it could also be an inevitable risk factor for some diseases. Several studies have shown that the taller you are, the higher your risk for certain illnesses.

Cardiovascular Diseases

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine has identified the causal relationship between height and cardiovascular diseases. The study involved 20,000 Danish participants who were monitored for over 30 years.

The results showed that cardiovascular diseases were more prevalent in taller people than shorter people. For every 6.5 cm increase in height, the risk of developing heart disease increased by 13.5%. Tall people also had a higher incidence of deep vein thrombosis, which is a blood clot that forms in the veins of the leg.

Cancer

Height has been repeatedly linked with cancer, particularly with an increased risk of cancers that affect the liver, colon, lungs, and breasts.

A meta-analysis of 10 cohort studies that was published in Lancet Diabetes and Endocrinology Journal found that for every 10 centimetre increase in height, the risk of developing cancer increased by 11%. The relationship between height and cancer is still not fully understood, but researchers believe that hormones such as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and estrogen play a role in cancer development.

Taller individuals tend to have higher levels of these hormones, which can increase the risk of cancer.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that causes bones to become brittle and fragile. A study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research has shown that taller people have higher bone mineral density and are at a higher risk for fractures.

This is because taller people have longer bones, which require higher mineral density to support them. However, the relationship between height and osteoporosis is complicated because taller people also have a greater bone mass, which can lower the risk of osteoporosis.

Nevertheless, physicians suggest that tall individuals should take measures to improve bone mineral density, such as exercising regularly and ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are veins that have become enlarged and twisted. They are a common condition, affecting up to 20% of adults.

A study published in the Journal of Vascular Surgery found a positive correlation between height and the likelihood of developing varicose veins. The study found that individuals taller than 175 cm were twice as likely to have varicose veins as compared to those who were shorter than 160 cm.

The study suggests that taller people may have greater venous pressure in their legs, which can put more strain on the veins and increase the risk of varicose veins.

Diabetes

The relationship between height and diabetes is still being researched. However, several studies have suggested that taller people have a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A study published in the Journal of Diabetes Care found that for every 10 cm increase in height, the risk of developing diabetes increased by 41% in men and 33% in women. Researchers believe that the increased risk of diabetes in tall individuals may be due to childhood nutrition and growth factors such as IGF-1, which are essential for growth but can also increase the risk of diabetes.

Survivability of Falls and Injuries

Taller individuals have a greater risk of falling and being injured. However, they are more likely to survive these injuries.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Epidemiology found that taller individuals were 1.6 times more likely to be hospitalized for an injury but were less likely to die from injuries. This is because taller individuals have greater bone density, muscle mass, and a larger frame, which can absorb more impact and protect vital organs during falls and accidents.

However, the research suggests that despite their added survivability, taller individuals should still take precautions to avoid injuries.

Psychological Effects

Height can also have a psychological impact on individuals. Taller individuals tend to have higher self-esteem, better social status, and professional success. However, research has also connected being tall with a higher likelihood of depression.

There is also evidence that taller individuals may be more prone to eating disorders.

Conclusion

Height is not just a physical attribute; it also plays a crucial role in our health and well-being.

Multiple studies have linked taller height with an increased risk of many illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, osteoporosis, varicose veins, and diabetes. However, height can also provide advantages, such as survivability in accidents and higher social status. Nevertheless, regardless of their height, individuals can take preemptive measures to improve their health and reduce their risk of diseases.

By eating nutritious food, exercising regularly, maintaining healthy body weight, and avoiding smoking and other harmful habits, anyone can lead a healthy life.