New research suggests that healthy lifestyle choices can significantly reduce the risk of early death, even for people with a genetic predisposition. The study, which involved more than 350,000 participants, found that healthy habits such as regular exercise, eating well and getting enough sleep can offset up to 62% of genetic risk. Although genetics play a role, lifestyle choices appear to have a much greater impact on longevity.
In a study published in BMJ Evidence-based medicineresearchers investigated the association between lifestyle, genetic factors, and human longevity.
This study shows that you can dramatically extend your lifespan by quitting bad habits. Binge drinking, smoking, couch potatoing, and unhealthy eating are associated with early death. Research shows that these lifestyle choices may outweigh any genetic predisposition to a shorter lifespan. Even if your genes aren't stacked in your favor, staying active, eating well, and getting enough sleep can significantly increase your chances of living a long life. Scientists are still figuring out the exact relationship between genes and lifestyle, but for now the message is clear. Healthy choices are a powerful weapon against premature death.
The study involved 353,742 European adults who enlisted between 2006 and 2010 and were then followed until 2021. The study looked at factors such as longevity PRS and Healthy Lifestyle Score (HLS) in the highest quintile category.
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can reduce your genetic risk by 62%. People who have a genetic predisposition to a shorter lifespan and lead an unhealthy lifestyle have a 2.04 times higher risk of dying than people with healthy habits.
Practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors can significantly reduce premature mortality in individuals with a genetic predisposition to shortened lifespans. Future studies should aim to incorporate participants of non-European origin to increase the applicability of the results.