New research suggests that adopting a healthy lifestyle may counteract the effects of genes that shorten lifespan by more than 62%.
The study, published in BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, states that lifestyle choices have a significant impact on longevity, independent of genetic predisposition.
The study evaluated both genetic risk factors and lifestyle habits, based on data from more than 350,000 adults followed from 2006 to 2021.
They found that while genetics play a role in determining longevity, an unhealthy lifestyle significantly increases the risk of premature death, regardless of genetic makeup.
Participants were categorized based on genetic risk scores and lifestyle choices. During an average follow-up period of approximately 13 years, 24,239 participants died.
People with unfavorable lifestyles, characterized by factors such as smoking, unhealthy diet, and lack of exercise, were 78% more likely to die prematurely than those with healthy lifestyles.
Interestingly, people with a favorable lifestyle despite high genetic risk were twice as likely to live longer than those with an unfavorable lifestyle.
The main elements of a healthy lifestyle include quitting smoking, regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and eating a balanced diet.
The study highlights the importance of lifestyle in improving health, and people with a genetic predisposition to shorter lifespans can extend their lives by adopting healthier choices. suggests that it can be done.
However, researchers note that the lifestyle assessment is only done once, and the results may not apply to all populations.
Although this study provides valuable insights, it is essential to recognize its observational nature, meaning that causal relationships cannot be determined.
Nevertheless, this finding highlights the need for public health policies aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles to reduce the influence of genetic factors on longevity.
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