Could your height be a risk factor for varicose veins?
A new study has revealed that the likelihood of developing varicose veins can be significantly impacted by a person’s height. Researchers claim this is the largest genetic study ever carried out on venous disease and varicose veins and its results have certainly proven interesting.
So, how could your height impact your chances of developing varicose veins?
What the study found
The study, carried out by the Stanford University School of Medicine, used genetic data from the UK Biobank, which contains information on a staggering 502,619 people. Their ages ranged from 40 to 69 and the researchers were able to identify 30 genetic regions linked to varicose veins.
An artificial intelligence machine was used to search for any previously unknown risk factors. It was then that the link between height and varicose veins was discovered. To be sure they’d read it correctly, the researchers then used Mendelian randomisation to confirm the findings, which it did.
This isn’t the first study to link the risk of varicose veins with height. A small number of studies carried out between 20 and 30 years ago also revealed a link. However, this is the most significant study to confirm the association.
According to the study, the taller you are, the more likely you are to develop varicose veins. Experts aren’t quite sure why this is, but they are hoping the study results can reveal more about the biological changes which occur in those at risk of varicose veins. This, in turn, could help with the development of new treatments.
Seeking treatment for varicose veins
If you are suffering from varicose veins, it’s crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. Varicose veins don’t just look unpleasant, they can also pose a serious health risk if left untreated.
The good news is, there’s plenty of treatments available today. Many treatment options are also minimally invasive, giving you the option to have them carried out in your lunch hour if you wanted to. Book a consultation today with a specialist at Cornwall Vein Clinic and see what options are available to you.