Reading glasses linked to higher intelligence?

Is reading glasses linked to higher intelligence? Scientists think so. They say that people who wear glasses may be more intelligent than those who don't.

The scientists at the University of Edinburgh studied the genetic data of over 44,480 people, and found that those who were more intelligent were nearly 30 per cent more likely to have genes indicating they require reading glasses.

"This study, the largest genetic study of cognitive function, has identified many genetic differences that contribute to the heritability of thinking skills," said Gail Davies from University of Edinburgh in the UK.

The study, published in the journal Nature Communications, also linked higher cognitive ability to genes known to play a part in better cardiovascular health. The scientists analysed 148 genomic regions related to better cognitive function, including 58 that have not previously been reported.

The results of the study could help understand the related cognitive decline in age and illness, The Telegraph reported.

"The discovery of shared genetic effects on health outcomes and brain structure provides a foundation for exploring the mechanisms by which these differences influence thinking skills throughout a lifetime," said Davies.

Participants had taken various thinking tests which were summarised as a general cognitive ability score. All had genetic testing that examined their DNA and none of the people had dementia or a stroke, the study shows.
(With PTI inputs)