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Study Reveals Tripling of Median Artery in Adults

11/8/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A study by Flinders University and the University of Adelaide, published in the Journal of Anatomy, shows the median artery in adults has tripled over the past century, now about 30% vs 10% in the mid-1880s.
The change could enhance forearm blood supply but may raise the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Researchers say natural selection may drive this microevolution, and by 2100 most people may possess the artery.

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Story summary

A study by Flinders University and the University of Adelaide, published in the Journal of Anatomy, shows the median artery in adults has tripled over the past century, now about 30% vs 10% in the mid-1880s.
The change could enhance forearm blood supply but may raise the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Researchers say natural selection may drive this microevolution, and by 2100 most people may possess the artery.