Height not only impacts appearance but is also closely linked to longevity. Studies suggest that individuals of modest height generally face a lower risk of disease compared to taller people. Notably, men around 1,57 m tall often possess a longevity gene.

Cancer risk increases by nearly 20% for every 10 cm of added height

In 2014, a Swedish study involving over 5 million people revealed that for every 10 cm increase in height, the risk of cancer rose by 18% in women and 11% in men.

Specifically, tall women faced a more than 20% higher risk of breast cancer compared to shorter women. Meanwhile, the risk of melanoma increased by approximately 30% for every 10 cm of height in both sexes.

The World Cancer Research Fund also indicated that taller individuals have a higher risk of kidney, ovarian, pancreatic, colorectal, and prostate cancers. Scientists hypothesize that taller people have a greater number of cells and higher levels of growth hormones, increasing the likelihood of cell mutations that lead to cancer.

Thrombosis risk drops by 65% in shorter individuals

A 2017 study that surveyed over 2 million siblings showed that taller individuals had a significantly greater risk of venous thromboembolism.

For men, those under 1,6 m tall had a 65% lower risk of thrombosis compared to those 1,88 m or taller. For women, those under 1,55 m tall had a 69% lower risk compared to those 1,83 m or taller.

The reason suggested is that longer legs mean longer blood vessels, which can slow the rate of blood returning to the heart, thereby increasing the potential for blood clot formation.

A child patient having their height measured at the hospital. Photo: *Minh Thu*

Lower center of gravity helps reduce risk of falls and fractures

For taller individuals, hip fractures pose a greater threat than cancer. A 2016 meta-analysis indicated a potential link between height and the risk of hip fractures.

Taller people have a higher center of gravity, making them more prone to falls. When they fall, the impact force on the ground is also greater for taller individuals, increasing the likelihood of serious injury. Conversely, shorter people have a lower center of gravity and better stability, which helps reduce both the frequency and severity of injuries from impacts.

Shorter men often carry the FOXO3 longevity gene

Statistics show that shorter people generally live two to five years longer than taller individuals on average. A 2014 study on Japanese-American men found that shorter men were more likely to carry the protective FOXO3 gene.

The study divided participants into two groups: those 1,57 m or shorter, and those 1,62 m or taller. The results showed that the group 1,57 m or shorter lived the longest. As height increased, lifespan tended to decrease. Additionally, smaller body sizes are often associated with fewer chronic diseases related to diet, especially in middle and old age.

While studies highlight the advantages of shorter individuals, experts emphasize that the relationship between height and longevity still requires further exploration. Regardless of your height, maintaining a healthy lifestyle—including a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and a healthy weight—remains the key factor in determining long-term health.

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