Get to grips with health

A WEAK handshake could be an early sign of a failing heart, scientists say.

A link has been found between a limp grip and damaging changes in heart structure and function – and experts believe hand grip could be used as a broad measure of heart health. Researchers analysed heart scan images from almost 5000 participants with a range of different handshakes.

They found a stronger grip was associated with higher volumes of blood being pumped by a healthier heart muscle. People with weak handshakes were more likely to have enlarged, damaged hearts.