Researchers at Boston University have found that the key to one living longer than 100 years is mainly genetics, not healthy living. The researchers discovered 150 genetic variants that can predict longevity at 77% accuracy when aggregating their individual influences. While it was found that healthy living can marginally influence one’s lifespan into his or her 80s, genetics begin to play an increasingly important role after this. For those who live upward to 110 or longer, genetics are almost the sole factors in their longevity.
The researchers will put up a website within the next month where people can obtain a rough estimate of their longevity. It is also expected that companies selling genetic tests will quickly include the new longevity assessment.
Hopefully this serves to reverse the trend of Americans becoming obsessively health-crazed over the past decade (ironically, obesity figures have grown worse). A few years ago, water overtook beer as the most popular beverage in America. This was extremely indicative of a long coming transformation in the nation’s culture from community and friends (beer) to individualism and narcissism (water). If folks start to believe that their longevity is more linked to nature than their activities, perhaps we will see a renaissance in Americans preferring the company of others instead of that of their own vanity.
I like the “theme” of this kind of research. While people certainly shouldn’t be encouraged to smoke, drink, and lead generally unhealthy lifestyles, it is important to remember that many aspects of longevity are outside our control.