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Have you ever noticed a diagonal crease or line on your earlobe? While it might seem like a harmless mark, some research suggests that this feature, often called “Frank’s sign,” could be linked to an increased risk of heart disease.
Understanding Frank’s Sign
Named after Dr. Sanders T. Frank, who first described the sign in a 1973 paper, this line on the earlobe has been intriguing medical professionals for decades. Here’s what you should know about it:
Association with Heart Disease: Several studies have indicated that a diagonal earlobe crease could be associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). The crease may result from poor blood circulation, a common factor in cardiovascular issues.
Not a Definitive Indicator: While the presence of this line has been linked to heart disease, it’s not a definitive indicator. Many people with earlobe creases will never develop heart disease, and many without the crease will. Thus, it should not be used as the sole method of diagnosing heart problems.
Who is Affected?: The earlobe crease can appear in individuals of all ages but is more commonly observed in older adults, aligning with the general risk increase for heart disease with age.
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