Posts Tagged ‘height’

Looks Matter

August 15, 2013

We all know that eating well, exercising and getting enough sleep contributes to keeping us healthy. But did you know that there are physical characteristics that place us at a higher risk for certain cancers?

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A new research paper, published by Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that there is a correlation between tall women and several cancers, such as breast, colon, endometrial, thyroid, rectal, kidney and melanoma.

The researchers observed a 13% higher risk of developing for every 3.94 inches of height.

Young female with red hair and bare shoulders looking at camera

Redheads beware! Gingers have a much higher risk of skin cancer than their blonde and brunette counterparts. It is speculated that the red pigment in red hair, called pheomelanin may leave skin cells more susceptible to DNA damage. Slather on the sunscreen daily, if it’s raining!

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Protect your baby blues! Those with lighter eye colors, such as blue, green or hazel, are more likely to get intraocular melanoma, or cancer of the eye. Brown eyes have more pigment to protect them from harmful rays. Make sure to wear sunglasses when outdoors, to help filter those strong ultraviolet rays.

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Large breasted women have a greater risk of developing breast cancer than their less endowed sisters. Harvard researchers have found that thin women with a D cup bra size or larger have twice the cancer risk of those wearing an A cup or smaller.

Want to learn more? Check out the full story at Everyday Health.

photos: Glasshouse Images

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