Scientists are trying to understand why the number of redheads in Europe has sharply increased

The number of fair-skinned people with red hair in Europe is noticeably increasing, and the reasons behind this phenomenon remain not fully understood.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to the Daily Mail, this conclusion was reached by scientists from Harvard University.

According to the study, people with red hair, who previously were often the subject of ridicule, today find themselves in a more advantageous position from an evolutionary standpoint. The authors of the study claim that the process of human evolution continues and is progressing significantly faster than previously assumed.

Genetic analysis has shown that over the past 10,000 years, the gene responsible for red hair color has become more common among Europeans. At the same time, scientists recorded an increase in the prevalence of other traits as well — in particular, lighter skin, a reduced tendency toward male pattern baldness, higher movement speed, and even enhanced cognitive abilities.

Researchers suggest that red hair may have provided certain advantages as far back as several millennia ago. However, it is also possible that this trait became established in the population in conjunction with other, more significant genetic characteristics.

Among the additional traits that have spread alongside red hair are a predisposition to celiac disease, immunity to HIV, resistance to leprosy, a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, and a lower body fat percentage.