Association of second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) with risk prediction of coronary artery disease among females of North-West India

Abstract

Background: Coronary artery disease, a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in both the genders, needs noninvasive predicting factors to identify the risk at early stage. Second and fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) of hand has been associated with coronary artery disease among males but literature lacks such data in relation to female population. Aim: To establish any association between 2D:4D ratio and coronary artery disease and with family history related to risk of coronary artery disease so as to assess the predictive value of digit ratio. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 200 adult female subjects of North India under two groups: 1. Control group- subjects with no known history of coronary artery disease, 2 Patient group- subjects with known history of coronary artery disease (CAD). Family history of CAD, hypertension (HT) and diabetes mellites (DM) was noted. The index finger (2D) and the ring finger (4D) lengths were measured to calculate 2D:4D ratio. Results: Mean right and left 2D:4D ratio was significantly higher group 2. With medium effect size and Odd’s ratio (1.83), Right 2D:4D ratio is a better risk predictor. The prevalence of high right 2D:4D ratio was significantly more among subjects having positive family history reflecting risk of CAD in both groups.
Conclusion: Association of high right 2D:4D ratio with coronary artery disease and relevant family history shows risk prediction for coronary artery disease among females.