A recent study published in the journal BMJ Evidence Based Medicine suggests that individuals with life-shortening genes can extend their life by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. The research found that people with unhealthy lifestyles and genetic predispositions are twice as likely to die prematurely compared to those with good habits and genes. Lifestyle factors such as not smoking, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and a healthy diet were identified as having the greatest impact on longevity. The study revealed that individuals who adopt healthy habits can potentially offset their genetic risk for premature death by more than 60%.
The study, which involved analyzing data from 353,742 adults recruited to the UK Biobank between 2006 and 2010, tracked participants’ health until 2021. Participants were assessed for overall genetic risk of a longer or shorter lifespan using a polygenic risk score (PRS) tool that considered multiple genetic factors. The study findings classified participants into categories based on lifespan risk and lifestyle habits. It was observed that individuals genetically predisposed to early death were 21% more likely to die during the study period, regardless of their lifestyle choices. On the other hand, those with unhealthy lifestyles were 78% more likely to die prematurely compared to those with healthy habits. Those who had both an unhealthy lifestyle and genetic predispositions were found to have double the risk of premature death compared to those with good health habits and a favorable genetic profile.
The study highlighted the importance of lifestyle factors in mitigating the impact of genetic factors on lifespan reduction. The research suggested that public health policies promoting healthy lifestyles could complement conventional healthcare practices and help reduce the influence of genetic factors on human lifespan. Another study conducted by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity in 2023 also found that adopting a healthy lifestyle, even later in life, was associated with lower mortality risk and longer life expectancy. This further emphasizes the role of healthy habits in extending lifespan, particularly for individuals with high genetic risk.
Research conducted at San Diego State University focused on genes, lifestyle, and longevity among women in the United States aged 63 and older. The study concluded that engaging in positive lifestyle behaviors such as regular exercise and reduced sitting time can extend lifespan, even in individuals who are not genetically predisposed to live long. Conversely, even individuals with a genetic predisposition to a long life should continue to prioritize physical activity to achieve longevity. The findings aim to empower individuals with the knowledge that their lifespan is not predetermined and that they have significant control over their health outcomes.
Health practitioners hope that this research will empower individuals to make sustainable lifestyle changes that can add up to long-term benefits. Instead of focusing on short-term resolutions like joining a gym each New Year only to lose motivation shortly after, individuals are encouraged to find enjoyable and manageable activities that fit into their routine. By making small, consistent changes, individuals can enhance their overall health and potentially extend their lifespan. The message from these studies is clear: while genetics play a role in health outcomes, lifestyle habits have a significant impact on longevity, offering individuals the opportunity to take control of their health and well-being.
