Neanderthal DNA linked to array of health problems affecting modern man

If you are a hairy diabetic who smokes and suffers from stomach cramps, blame your Neanderthal ancestry.

Remnants of Neanderthal DNA in the genes of non-African modern humans are linked to a range of health problems, including Type 2 diabetes, Crohn’s disease, lupus and biliary cirrhosis, a study has shown.

They are also associated with smoking behaviour and thick hair, as well as tough skin and nails.