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A new study reveals that a healthy lifestyle may counter the effects of genetics on lifespan, potentially adding five years to life. The research suggests that adopting healthier habits can reduce the impact of genes linked to shorter lifespans by 62%. This is the first study highlighting the significant role of lifestyle choices in longevity.
The study analyzed data from more than 350 thousand individuals from the UK Biobank. It found that people with a high genetic risk of early death had a 21% higher chance of dying early compared to those with a lower genetic risk, regardless of their lifestyle.
However, those with unhealthy habits, such as smoking or poor diet, saw a 78% higher risk of early death, no matter their genetic predisposition.
Even though some are genetically predisposed to live shorter lives, the research shows that lifestyle choices matter immensely.
Individuals with both high genetic risk and unhealthy lifestyles more than doubled their risk of early death compared to those with low-risk genes and healthy habits.
The study revealed that people can offset genetic risks by following an "optimal lifestyle combination." This includes never smoking, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, and getting adequate sleep. Those who followed this approach could extend their life expectancy by 5.22 years, especially when starting at age 40.
The research, published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, followed participants for an average of 13 years, during which time 24,239 deaths occurred. The participants were categorized into groups based on their genetic lifespan risk and lifestyle habits.
Overall, the study emphasizes that while genetic factors may influence lifespan, living a healthy life can profoundly affect longevity, helping to mitigate genetic risks significantly.