Red Hair Question

Study finds no additional surgical risks for people with red hair.
The Chicago Tribune (12/9, Deardorff) "Julie's Health Club" blog reported that four Welsh researchers have determined that even "though redheads have a bizarre medical reputation for excessive bleeding and greater pain sensitivity, they pose no greater risk during surgery than those sporting blonde, brown, or black tresses." The study, which appears in the Dec. 9 issue of BMJ, suggested that red-haired people "are sensitive to ultraviolet light and have an increased risk of skin cancer," but that there is "no evidence" supporting claims that they bleed more or are more susceptible to developing hernias.
WebMD (12/9, DeNoon) reported that the researchers "searched the medical and anecdotal literature for evidence to support the belief" and came up empty-handed. "Despite sporadic reports to the contrary, the clinical implications of red hair...remain questionable," they concluded.