Fact check: Q

1. Summary of the results

The claim about humans evolving an extra artery in the arm is supported by scientific research. Studies have documented a significant increase in the prevalence of the median artery, rising from 10% in the 1880s to 30% by the late 20th century ^[1]. This extra blood vessel typically forms during early human development but usually disappears around 8 weeks of gestation - however, it's increasingly persisting into adulthood ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual points need to be considered:

• The change isn't purely beneficial - while the extra artery can provide better blood supply, it also increases the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome ^[2]
• The persistence of this artery may be influenced by multiple factors, including:
• Genetic mutations
• Maternal health conditions during pregnancy ^[2]
• This is part of a broader pattern of ongoing human evolution, alongside other documented changes such as:
• Increased lactose tolerance
• Reduction in wisdom teeth ^[3]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original article headline might oversimplify what is actually a complex biological process:

• It doesn't mention that this isn't a "new" artery - it's actually a fetal blood vessel that traditionally disappeared before birth but is now increasingly persisting ^[2]
• The headline might create the impression that this is an entirely positive development, when in fact it comes with both benefits and potential medical complications ^[2]
• The change should be viewed as part of the broader context of human micro-evolution rather than an isolated phenomenon ^{[1] [3]}