New Research Shows Healthy Lifestyle Can Offset Genetic Risk of Early Death
Recent research sheds light on the significant impact of genetics on lifespan and how lifestyle choices can mitigate these effects. While some individuals are genetically predisposed to a shorter life, lifestyle factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, diet, and physical activity play crucial roles in longevity.
A groundbreaking study, the first of its kind, examined the interplay between genetics and lifestyle choices in determining lifespan. Findings indicate that a healthy lifestyle may counterbalance genetic predispositions by more than 60%, potentially adding up to five years to one's life. Published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, the study underscores the pivotal role of healthy living in mitigating genetic influences on lifespan reduction.
Analyzing data from the UK Biobank involving over 350,000 participants, researchers discovered that individuals with a high genetic risk of early death faced a 21% increased mortality rate compared to those with lower genetic risk, irrespective of their lifestyle. Conversely, individuals with unhealthy lifestyles experienced a 78% heightened risk of early death, regardless of genetic predisposition.
Moreover, the study revealed that combining an unhealthy lifestyle with a genetic predisposition to shorter lifespan more than doubled the risk of premature death. However, encouragingly, researchers found that individuals have a degree of control over their outcomes. A favorable lifestyle could offset the genetic risk by approximately 62%, potentially extending life expectancy by over five years at age 40.
The study identified the "optimal lifestyle combination" for longevity as never smoking, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep duration, and a healthy diet. Over an average follow-up period of 13 years, during which 24,239 deaths occurred, participants were categorized based on genetically determined lifespan and lifestyle scores.
Polygenic risk scores were utilized to assess overall genetic predisposition, while lifestyle scores accounted for factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, body shape, diet, and sleep habits. Matt Lambert, Health Information and Promotion Manager at the World Cancer Research Fund, emphasized the study's significance, highlighting that a healthy lifestyle, including balanced nutrition and physical activity, can promote longevity despite genetic factors.
In summary, this research underscores the importance of adopting a healthy lifestyle to counterbalance genetic predispositions and enhance overall well-being and longevity.
