Scientific research indicates that over the last hundred years, the human body has undergone not only lifestyle changes but also certain biological shifts related to physical structure. One such study has shown that the shape of the human skull has been changing significantly over time.
These findings are based on the results of comprehensive scientific research conducted by Japanese anthropologists, who compared the skull structures of people who lived in the early 20th century with those of the current generation. The results of the study were published in one of the prestigious scientific journals, the "American Journal of Biological Anthropology."
Scientists compared computed tomography data of skulls from individuals who died between 1900 and 1920 with scans of the modern Japanese population from 2022–2024. During the analysis, 3D modeling and deep measurements based on 161 anatomical points were performed to achieve precise results.
According to the results, the human skull structure has become slightly more "rounded" over the past hundred years. The elongated shape that was more common in the past has significantly decreased in the current generation. Furthermore, changes were also observed in the facial area: the cheekbones have narrowed, the upper jaw has widened slightly, and the nasal structure has become thinner and more prominent. A reduction in the forehead structure and a relative enlargement of the mastoid bones were also recorded.
The study's author, Shiori Usui, believes that it is difficult to explain such rapid changes through simple biological evolution. She emphasizes that the main factor is the change in lifestyle: improved nutritional quality during childhood, higher standards of healthcare, and increased consumption of soft foods may have directly affected human facial bones.
One interesting aspect is that anatomical differences between men and women have, conversely, intensified. In men, the brow ridges and the degree of facial protrusion have become more pronounced, while in women, these indicators have taken on a relatively softer appearance. This result somewhat contradicts previous assumptions that modern lifestyles reduce differences between the sexes.
The researchers also note that this trend may not be unique to Japan. They believe it is likely that similar changes are occurring in other countries, though further and broader scientific research is required in this regard.
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