Check for these physical characteristics that could be indicators of future health problems

Balding
Heart disease
As if losing your hair wasn’t bad enough, follicle-challenged men are now said to be at significantly greater risk of heart disease. Men with baldness at the crown of their heads are a third more likely to develop coronary artery disease, with Japanese researchers suggesting that men who lost their hair earlier in life are at especially high risk. Research published in the British Medical Journal had a look at six studies involving 37,000 men to report these startling findings. How to prevent it: The good news is risks of heart disease can be greatly reduced. Simple measures like making sure you get enough exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and eating a balanced diet will keep your heart in check. Avoid drinking and smoking, which are the key causes of heart disease.

Skinny thighs
Coronary problems
However desirable, tiny thighs could raise your risk of coronary problems. Women whose upper legs are less than 23.6 inches in circumference have a higher risk of coronary disease and early death, says a Danish study. It is due to the fact that too little muscle mass can lead to type 2 diabetes and heart failure. How to prevent it: A healthy diet with oily fish and regular exercise can help to keep your heart healthy.

Short index finger
Osteoarthritis
Strange as it may seem — and also bad news for women — if your index finger is shorter than your ring finger you could be twice as likely to develop osteoarthritis in the knees. According to a 2008 study in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, such people tend to have lower levels of oestrogen, which could contribute to the onslaught of osteoarthritis. How to prevent it: There is a lot of speculation regarding links between hormones and osteoarthritis, however most doctors would advise that risk can be minimised by avoiding injury and staying as healthy as possible. Eat a balanced diet, look after your joints and maintain a healthy weight.

Short legs
Liver disease
A 2008 study by Bristol University indicated that women with legs between 20 and 29 inches in length tended to have higher levels of four enzymes, which indicated liver disease. How to prevent it: Research suggests that there is a connection between fat distribution and liver function. The liver is a vital organ. A healthy diet and a low alcohol intake will help keep your liver working to its full potential.

Short arms
Alzheimer’s
Women with shorter arm spans are 1.5 times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study in Neurology. Experts believe women who measure less than 60 inches fingertip to fingertip may have had nutritional deficits in childhood, predisposing them to cognitive decline. How to prevent it: Keeping your brain active is key. Brain food includes oily fish and folic acid.

Big bust
Breast cancer
It seems buxom ladies could have received a genetic booby prize. Women with a large bust may be more likely to develop breast cancer, according to scientists. A study of 16,000 women found that genetic mutations, which are involved in regulating the female sex hormone oestrogen, can trigger the growth of both breasts and tumours. How toprevent it: This is yet to be proved. Further, thanks to scientific advances breast cancer has become one of the most treatable cancers. Again, lifestyle is key. It has also been suggested that breast feeding can help reduce the risk of cancer. If breast cancer runs in your family, take tests to see if you carry the gene as there are several preventative procedures you can undertake.