Finger length ratio in longevity populations

The purpose of this study was to compare the prevalence of finger length ratio between three longevity populations (Abkhazians, Azerbaijanis, and Georgians) and one nonlongevity population (Russians), as well as between a longevity and nonlongevity sample within one ethnic group (Abkhazians).

In a cross-sectional observational study, we compared the prevalence of finger length ratio in longevity vs nonlongevity samples.

A negative relationship was observed between longevity index and prevalence of type 1 (feminine type) ratio. In longevity samples, the prevalence of type 1 ratio was lower and the prevalence of type 3 (masculine type) ratio was higher than in the nonlongevity sample of Russians. This difference was statistically significant (P < .001) in both males and females. A similar difference between longevity and nonlongevity samples was exhibited in the Abkhazian samples. In males and females, a significantly higher prevalence of type 1 and lower type 3 finger ratios (P < .001) were shown in the nonlongevity samples.

Finger length ratio pattern in longevity populations differs from that of nonlongevity populations. In longevity samples, the prevalence of type 1 ratio was lower and the prevalence of type 3 ratio was higher vs the nonlongevity sample. A similar type of difference was seen in the longevity and nonlongevity samples belonging to one ethnic group, the Abkhazians. Previous studies found that the type 1 finger length ratio was related to important morbidities that have a potential for shortening the life span. This can be one of the most plausible explanations for our findings.