Yellow markings in the skin around the eyelids are a warning to you as well as insurer

Researchers in Denmark have come out with a study after compiling data of 13000 persons and that too over 30 years . According to this those who were having patches, known as xanthelasmata were more likely to have heart attack or even die with it within 10 years.

These spots are deposits of Cholesterol which are soft and painless. They do not interfere with eyesight /vision. People generally go to dermatologists or skin specialists and get these treated.

In this Danish study started in 1970’s 12745 people were in the control group Out of this 4.4% were having xanthelasmata.Over 33 years 1872 had heart attack ,3699 developed heart disease and 8507 had died. The study shows that those with markings were 48% more likely to have heart attack,39% more likely to have heart disease and 14% more likely to die. The heart disease link is more acute for men in 70 to 79 years age group.

May be insurance companies issuing health insurance policies/life insurance policies  will start compiling data on xanthelasmata,come out with corrective steps (medical advice or loading of premium ) and save on costs associated with claims.