What Your Hands Can Reveal About Developing Illness, Such as COVID or Other Conditions
Written by Susan Parker | Updated on June 22, 2025
Reviewed by Susan Parker
11 sources cited
Over the past 24 years, more than 1,400 studies have indicated that finger length can offer insights into personality, behavior, skills, and susceptibility to specific diseases.
Index and Ring Fingers as Indicators
In the 19th century, differences in finger lengths between men and women were initially noted. Research progressed in 1998 when biologist John Manning explored finger lengths and discovered connections with testosterone levels, particularly in the ratio between the index finger (2D) and the ring finger (4D).Typically, men have longer ring fingers, which are linked to higher prenatal testosterone levels, while women usually have longer index fingers, associated with elevated estrogen levels.
Further studies suggest that a shorter pinky in relation to the middle finger, and variations in finger ratios between the right and left hand, can offer more insights into hormone levels and their impact on personal traits and disease predisposition.
Extensive research by Professor Manning on finger ratios, which includes recent research on COVID-19 hospitalization risk, underscores how digit lengths can provide valuable insights.
Age and COVID-19 Severity
Recent findings propose that digit ratios may influence COVID-19 severity, with patients exhibiting feminized finger differences experiencing more pronounced symptoms. Discrepancies in digit ratios, particularly between the right and left hand, are connected to increased probabilities of hospitalization.Low testosterone and high estrogen levels, as reflected in digit ratios, are associated with severe COVID-19 symptoms, especially in elderly males. These hormone levels have also been linked to obesity and heart disease, potentially exacerbating the severity of COVID-19 in affected individuals.
