Data Points, March 2007

Join Our Community of Science Lovers!

Shrink to Death

Height loss occurs with age, but a drop of more than three centimeters correlates with an increase in illness and death, according to a 20-year survey of British men. The increase may result from mechanisms underlying bone loss, which reduces stature. Researchers have long known that osteoporosis affects mortality by compromising breathing and digestion, although the shrinkage in such cases tends to be at least six centimeters.

Ages of subjects, years: 60 to 79

On supporting science journalism

If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.

Average height lost, centimeters: 1.67

Average weight change, kilograms: +3.14

Percent who lost at least 3 centimeters: 14.4

Weight change, kilograms: −0.2

Percent increase in death compared with those who shrank less than 1 centimeter: 64

When adjusted for health, smoking, weight loss and other factors: 45

Adjusted percent risk increase:

From cardiovascular disease: 39

From respiratory disease: 75

From other, noncancer causes: 227

SOURCE: Archives of Internal Medicine, December 11/25, 2006

It’s Time to Stand Up for Science

If you enjoyed this article, I’d like to ask for your support. Scientific American has served as an advocate for science and industry for 180 years, and right now may be the most critical moment in that two-century history.

I’ve been a Scientific American subscriber since I was 12 years old, and it helped shape the way I look at the world. SciAm always educates and delights me, and inspires a sense of awe for our vast, beautiful universe. I hope it does that for you, too.

If you subscribe to Scientific American, you help ensure that our coverage is centered on meaningful research and discovery; that we have the resources to report on the decisions that threaten labs across the U.S.; and that we support both budding and working scientists at a time when the value of science itself too often goes unrecognized.

In return, you get essential news, captivating podcasts, brilliant infographics, can't-miss newsletters, must-watch videos, challenging games, and the science world's best writing and reporting. You can even gift someone a subscription.

There has never been a more important time for us to stand up and show why science matters. I hope you’ll support us in that mission.

Thank you,

David M. Ewalt, Editor in Chief, Scientific American