... but having a degree cuts heart risk

HAVING a degree cuts your risk of a heart attack by a third, according to research.

Experts found that those who were educated for an extra 3.6 years after school – roughly the length of an average undergraduate degree – were 33 per cent less likely to have a heart attack in later life.

The researchers, from University College London and Oxford University, believe this is because educated people are less likely to smoke, eat healthier diets and do more exercise. They are also more likely to earn more and suffer less stress and anxiety.

The study, which is based on 540,000 people, analysed the genetic make-up of participants – and used this information to rule out the impact of pre-existing conditions and other confounding factors.

Experts say that the research, published last night in the British Medical Journal, is the strongest evidence to date on the health benefits of education.