By Dr Kamal ‘Akl, Consultant Paediatrician & Paediatric Nephrologist
Left-handedness is shaped by a mix of genetics and factors before birth. Multiple genes influence it, so it often runs in families. While the exact environmental triggers are unclear, studies suggest higher prenatal testosterone may increase the likelihood of a baby being left-handed.
Interestingly, twins are more likely to have one left-handed sibling and women over 40 have a slightly higher chance of giving birth to left-handed babies than younger women.
How the Brain is Wired
The left hand is controlled by the brain’s right hemisphere, which governs creativity, intuition, problem-solving, holistic thinking, imagination, music, 3D perception and art.
It’s no surprise that legendary artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were left-handed.
Left-handed individuals often show strong interhemispheric brain connectivity, excel in divergent thinking, and can have advantages in competitiveness, ambidexterity and even video gaming.
By contrast, right-handed people rely more on the left hemisphere, responsible for language, mathematics, logic and analytical thinking.
Left-Handedness and Health
For centuries, left-handed people have navigated a world designed for right-handed users: think scissors, notebooks and desks.
Thankfully, modern innovations now cater to left-handed needs, from ergonomic computer mice to specialised writing tools, making everyday life easier and more comfortable.
Since August 13, 1992, this day has been celebrated as International Left-Handed Day. The aim is to raise awareness about left-handed individuals. Up to the mid-20th century, left-handed schoolchildren were sometimes punished and forced to write with their right hand
Fun Fact
Around 10% of humans are left-handed, compared to 50% of cats, dogs and rats
Apes show no strong preference for either hand
Parrots and kangaroos are mostly left-handed
Men are more frequently left-handed than women
Around 90% of fetuses prefer sucking their right thumb
You can contact Dr Kamal ‘Akl at [email protected]
