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Is longevity inherited? Conventional wisdom suggests that a family history rich in octogenarians and nonagenarians can indicate your potential for a long life. However, scientific findings seem to challenge this notion.
17%. A recent study on aging and longevity published in Nature Medicine evaluated the influence of several factors on our future health and the risk of premature death. One of the study’s most surprising results is the relatively small effect of genetic predisposition compared to environmental factors.
Specifically, environmental factors account for 17% of the variation in mortality risk among the population studied, significantly higher than the mere 2% attributed to genetic predisposition. Researchers identified the environmental factors with the greatest impact on this risk as smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions.
“Our research demonstrates the profound health impact of exposures that can be changed either by individuals or through policies to improve socioeconomic conditions, reduce smoking, or promote physical activity,” co-author Cornelia van Duijn explained in a press release.
Different diseases impact individuals differently. The research team observed differences in how several factors influence the risks associated with certain diseases. The study revealed that environmental factors have a more significant effect on diseases affecting the lungs, heart, and liver. In contrast, genetics play a more substantial role in conditions such as dementia and certain cancers, including breast cancer.
Almost half a million participants. The study utilized data collected by the UK Biobank. This extensive biomedical database enabled the team to investigate the influence of 164 environmental and genetic factors on aging and premature deaths within the sample.
Assessing the aging process in individuals is complex. While researchers examined several aging-related diseases, they also employed a new “age clock,” which is a biological clock based on specific proteins found in the blood.
Lessons for the future. The findings of the study can help guide public health interventions. “These findings underscore the potential benefits of focusing interventions on our environments, socioeconomic contexts, and behaviors for the prevention of many age-related diseases and premature death,” co-author Austin Argentieri said.
The significance of this study is attributed to its large sample size and the extensive amount of data analyzed. Experts who haven’t participated in the research claim that the study utilized a strong collection of samples and data from thousands of people. Additionally, the study’s conclusions have been confirmed by experts from several geographical areas, further enhancing its credibility.
Image | Vlad Sargu
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