A recent study has revealed that adopting a healthy lifestyle could reduce the impact of life-shortening genes by more than 60%. The research, published in BMJ Evidence Based Medicine, highlights the significant role lifestyle choices play in extending our lifespan, even for those with genetic predispositions to shorter lives.
Dr. Xifeng Wu, one of the study’s authors and a leading expert at Zhejiang University School of Medicine, emphasized that lifestyle and genetic factors both influence human lifespan. While an unhealthy lifestyle can increase the risk of early death by 78%, maintaining healthy habits can counteract this risk by about 62%.
Dr. Wu explained, “Following a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the lifespan reduction caused by genetic factors.” The study found that individuals with both a genetic predisposition to shorter lifespans and an unhealthy lifestyle were at twice the risk of death compared to those with a genetic predisposition to longer lives and healthy habits.
However, even those with high genetic risk still face a 21% increased risk of death compared to those with low genetic risk, regardless of lifestyle choices.
The study pinpointed four key lifestyle factors crucial for longevity: not smoking, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet. The researchers found that for a 40-year-old with high genetic risk, a healthy lifestyle could add up to 5.5 years to their life expectancy.
Dr. Wu also stressed the importance of promoting healthy habits from a young age, as lifestyle behaviors are often formed before middle age. Public health initiatives that encourage healthy choices are essential to helping those with genetic vulnerabilities live longer and healthier lives.
“Focus on building and maintaining healthy habits, no matter your genetic background,” said Dr. Wu. “These lifestyle changes are vital for promoting longevity and overall well-being.”
The study followed 353,742 adults from the UK Biobank over an average of 13 years, tracking their health and lifestyle choices. While the study can’t definitively prove cause and effect, it offers strong evidence that lifestyle choices can mitigate genetic risks.
Experts like Dr. Christopher Kramer from the University of Virginia Health also support the study’s findings, noting that lifestyle choices significantly impact lifespan, often more so than genetics. He urges people to focus on a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
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