Wednesday 5 November 2008

Women's Hands 'Harbour More Bugs'

Women have a greater range of different types of bacteria on the palms of their hands than men, research from the National Academy of Sciences suggests. The study also found that human hands harbour far higher numbers of bacteria species than previously thought.

Using powerful gene sequencing techniques, researchers found a typical hand had roughly 150 different species of bacteria living on it, with a greater diversity found on the hands of women. On average, women had 50% more bacterial species on their hands than men.

7 comment(s):

Unknown said...

girl germs!

Miss Cellania said...

Hey, it's because we're always cleaning up after you guys!

Anonymous said...

It's because of your freaking hand lotions! Bleh!

Anonymous said...

I don't know about you, but I for one always knew that human hands harbour far higher numbers of bacteria species than previously thought.

Anonymous said...

I knew girls had cooties when I was FIVE!

Anonymous said...

No, it's because we carry purses and are always setting them down in less than sterile places. Watch it or you'll get one upside the head! ;)

Anonymous said...

It's enough to put you off women for about 5 seconds...! :o) Rik.