Taller people are living healthier, according to a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. According to the study there is a well-established association between a shorter person and an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). Shorter individuals are also associated with risk factors of CAD such as high blood pressure, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and diabetes.

The study consisted of nearly 200,000 participants and 65% of them had a history of heart attacks. Ultimately, the study found that for every 2.5 inches taller someone was, s/he was 13.5% less at risk of developing heart disease.

The study seemed to find the correlation between short people and high LDL cholesterol levels. Every  2.5-inches shorter someone ones, their LDL levels increased by 45% and triglycerides by 32%.

While the study controlled for factors such as smoking and poor diet, to leave testing of only age, it does not mean that being 6'5" will prevent you from developing heart disease. It's still important to stop smoking and eat a healthy diet.

Smoking and obesity are still the main risk factors of approximately 600,000 deaths every year from heart disease. It is the leading cause of death in Americans.