Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in understanding how environmental factors influence our aging process, with potential implications for increasing human lifespan and overall health. A new study published in the journal analyzed data from nearly half a million participants to identify 25 lifestyle and environmental factors associated with mortality and biological aging.
The study used an “aging clock” model to estimate a person’s biological age based on molecular markers in their body, revealing that smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions were the most influential factors. Smoking alone was linked to 21 diseases, while socioeconomic factors and tiredness frequency were associated with 19.
The findings suggest that environmental exposures play a much greater role in determining health outcomes than previously thought, accounting for 17% of mortality risk compared to less than 2% explained by genetic predisposition. This highlights the importance of preventive strategies and interventions aimed at reducing exposure to harmful environments.
Experts emphasize that modifiable factors such as physical activity, education level, and socioeconomic status hold significant potential for improving population health. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms behind environmental factors’ impact on aging and disease, with a goal of developing personalized approaches to preventive care.
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/2-out-of-25-lifestyle-environmental-factors-affect-biological-aging-most-study-finds