Does your height affect your health?

New research is showing there may be an upside to being short.

A study in a cardiovascular journal links your risk of blood clots to your height, with taller people having a greater risk.

Blood clotting, also known by the medical term thrombosis, is a relatively unknown but common condition.

Worldwide, one in four people die of conditions caused by blood clots. Thrombosis involves blood clots forming most often in the deep vein of the leg (known as deep vein thrombosis), which can travel in the circulation and lodge in the lungs, causing potentially serious breathing problems.

While being tall is one predictor of the condition, other factors could also contribute to increased risk.

Obesity, cancer and immobility all add to your chances of developing a blood clot. It's important to know the risks, because many people, especially if hospitalized, may have little or no symptoms of a blood clot until a life-threatening situation occurs.

Another risk factor for thrombosis is having an irregular heart beat (atrial fibrillation). You're at a greater risk of this condition if you drink alcohol, are obese, or have heart disease, or if you have high blood pressure or other chronic conditions like sleep apnea.

Fortunately, if you are on the taller side or have any of these risk factors, there are steps you can take to reduce your odds. Ask your health professional if you are at risk and get evaluated.