In fact, there are many factors that influence a long and healthy life. These factors can be listed as follows:
1. Factor: Genetics
It is known that approximately 25% of the differences in life expectancy among people are influenced by genetic factors. In other words, genetics is a key factor in a long and healthy life. With the “longevity” approach gaining traction in the medical world, the goal is to reduce the impact of genetic factors on health by developing methods to protect against cellular damage resulting from aging.
2. Factor: Environment
Environmental factors are another secret to a long life. Like all living beings, humans are affected by changes in their environment. For example, declining air quality is a factor that contributes to health problems. For this reason, where we live and our environmental conditions also play a crucial role in longevity.
3. Factor: Lifestyle
In addition to genetic and environmental factors, lifestyle choices are another factor that directly affects health and longevity. This is because it is possible to improve quality of life through elements such as diet, sleep, and exercise habits.
According to a study conducted by Harvard University, it was found that people who implement all the factors that increase the chances of a long life live up to 14 years longer than those who do not. In short, what you do today can change your lifespan, how you age, and the amount of time you spend in good health.
In summary, the longevity approach offers us a detailed roadmap of what to focus on to extend our lifespan by concentrating on the present to achieve the ideal of a long life. The ultimate goal of this roadmap is to break the link between aging and disease and to extend the duration of healthy life. To this end, this new health approach emphasizes not only focusing on the future but also the importance of building that future starting today.
*The information provided here is not a substitute for consulting a healthcare professional. Please consult your doctor and/or pharmacist regarding your health.
References:
Campisi J, Kapahi P, Lithgow GJ, Melov S, Newman JC, Verdin E. From discoveries in aging research to therapeutics for healthy aging. Nature. 2019 Jul;571(7764):183-192. doi: 10.1038/s41586-019-1365-2. Epub 2019 Jul 10. PMID: 31292558; PMCID: PMC7205183.
Moka MK, George M, Sriram DK. Advancing Longevity: Exploring Anti-Aging Pharmaceuticals in Contemporary Clinical Trials Amid Aging Dynamics. Rejuvenation Res. Dec 2024;27(6):220-233. doi: 10.1089/rej.2024.0040. Published online September 4, 2024. PMID: 39162996.