A groundbreaking analysis from a team of international scientists has shed light on the powerful impact of lifestyle choices on human lifespan. The study, which incorporated data from multiple long-term studies, revealed that a healthy lifestyle can counteract the life-shortening effects of certain genes by more than 60 percent.
The research, which focused on the interplay between genetics and lifestyle, found that an unhealthy lifestyle alone is associated with a 78-percent increased risk of premature death, regardless of genetic background. This underscores the critical role that lifestyle factors play in determining lifespan.
Using a polygenic risk score (PRS) to assess genetic risk, the researchers analyzed data from over 350,000 adults enrolled in the UK Biobank. Participants were categorized based on their genetic risk of having a shorter or longer lifespan, as well as their lifestyle habits.
The study found that individuals genetically predisposed to a shorter lifespan were 21 percent more likely to die early compared to those with a genetic predisposition to a longer life, irrespective of lifestyle. Additionally, those with an unfavorable lifestyle had a 78 percent higher risk of premature death than those with a favorable lifestyle, regardless of genetic factors.
Participants facing both a high genetic risk and an unhealthy lifestyle were twice as likely to die early compared to those with a low genetic risk and a favorable lifestyle. Key components of a beneficial lifestyle included non-smoking, regular physical activity, sufficient sleep, and a healthy diet.
While the study has some limitations, such as focusing on a single point in time and excluding non-European ancestries, the findings suggest that a healthy lifestyle can significantly mitigate the genetic risk of a shortened lifespan by about 62 percent. This means that individuals at high genetic risk could potentially extend their life expectancy by nearly 5.5 years at the age of 40 through healthy living.
The researchers emphasize the importance of establishing healthy habits early in life, as lifestyle patterns tend to solidify before middle age. By promoting healthy lifestyles through public health policies, individuals can enhance their overall well-being and reduce the impact of genetic factors on lifespan.
In conclusion, the study highlights the pivotal role of a healthy lifestyle in mitigating the influence of genetic factors on lifespan reduction. By making informed choices and adopting healthy habits, individuals can take control of their health and well-being, ultimately leading to a longer and healthier life.