Study finds common factors in centenarians, pointing to aspects that may prolong longevity
Every decade, human life expectancy and the number of centenarians increase worldwide. This increase in longevity is largely due to structural changes in society, science and medicine, but there is also the influence of a number of factors at the biological level.
This is supported by a new study published in GeroScience that compared the health records of 44,000 Swedes between the ages of 64 and 99 over a period of about 35 years. Of these, only 2.7 percent lived to be 100, 85 percent of whom were women.
The results of the study
The researchers analyzed 12 blood biomarkers related to inflammation, kidney and liver function, and measures of anemia, malnutrition, and metabolism. They had already been linked to aging and/or mortality in previous work.
The results showed that centenarians tend to have lower levels of glucose, creatinine and uric acid by age 60. Although the medians of these biomarkers did not show much difference between centenarians and non-centenarians, extreme values were rare among centenarians.
On the other hand, people with higher levels of total cholesterol, iron, glucose, creatinine, uric acid, and liver function markers were less likely to live to age 100.
What factors influence longevity?
According to Elodia Ávila, a rejuvenation specialist, plastic surgeon, and creator of the podcast “The Secret of Longevity,” longevity is multifactorial. However, it is possible to stimulate it throughout life.
“Identifying this type of biomarker in centenarians helps us understand one of the variables involved in aging, genetics, and try some intervention, but there are other factors that can be influenced more simply, lifestyle,” he says.
“Lifestyle includes many aspects, diet, physical activity, sleep, mental health, among many others. It has been shown that changes in these areas are important for greater longevity and also help regulate genetic factors,” adds the specialist.
He also emphasizes that lifestyle changes affect longevity at any age. However, the sooner they are completed, the greater the benefits.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
