Beauty spots and moles linked to better health
People with lots of moles are genetically protected from many of the ravages of time, British scientists have discovered.
New research reported in the Sunday Times suggests those with plenty of moles may not only develop fewer wrinkles in old age, but also have stronger bones and tauter muscles.
Moles or beauty spots are formed by rapidly dividing cells that start producing dots of dark pigment on children as young as four, but which usually vanish from about the age of 40.
In some people, however, they continue to spread as they grow older, producing a smooth and wrinkle-free complexion that can make a woman look at least seven years younger than her age.
A study of 1,200 identical and non-identical female twins, aged 18-79, showed that those with more than 100 moles on their bodies also had tougher bones and were therefore 50% less likely to develop osteoporosis than women with fewer than 25 moles.
The findings, by a team at King’s College London, were presented at a meeting of the Royal Society of Medicine.
Researchers are now examining whether people with many moles are also protected against other symptoms of ageing, including failing eyesight, and even heart disease. The new evidence contrasts with previous warnings about moles being linked to an increased risk of skin cancer.
The link between moles and ageing runs counter to evidence that they cause an increased risk of skin cancer. However, Veronique Bataille, a senior dermatologist leading the King’s College research, pointed out that malignant melanoma remains rare.
