A recent study has yielded promising news for individuals concerned about their genetic predisposition to a shorter lifespan. The study, the first of its kind, indicates that a healthy lifestyle may have a substantial impact on one’s longevity, potentially counteracting the effects of genetics by more than 60%.
As per the findings published in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine, embracing a healthy lifestyle could potentially extend one’s life by up to five years. This is a significant revelation, shedding light on the potential for lifestyle choices to counteract genetic factors that may contribute to a shorter life.
The study, encompassing a substantial 353,742 participants from the UK Biobank, explored the correlation between genetics, lifestyle, and lifespan. It was revealed that individuals with a high genetic risk of a shorter life faced a 21% increased risk of early death, irrespective of their lifestyle. Conversely, those with unhealthy lifestyles had a 78% increased likelihood of early death, regardless of their genetic risk.
The most intriguing finding, however, was the pivotal role of a healthy lifestyle in offsetting the impact of genetic factors. In fact, individuals with a high genetic risk could potentially prolong their life expectancy by approximately 5.22 years by adhering to a favourable lifestyle. The “optimal lifestyle combination” for a longer life was identified as “never smoking, regular physical activity, adequate sleep duration, and healthy diet”.
The study’s implications are far-reaching, suggesting that public health policies focused on promoting healthy lifestyles could serve as potent complements to conventional healthcare, mitigating the influence of genetic factors on human lifespan.
Matt Lambert, a senior health information officer at the World Cancer Research Fund, commented on the findings, emphasizing the study’s importance. He stated, “This new research shows that, despite genetic factors, living a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced nutritious diet and keeping active, can help us live longer.”
In essence, this study presents compelling evidence that embracing a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact one’s longevity, potentially counteracting the effects of genetics and adding valuable years to one’s life. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of making positive lifestyle choices and underscores the significant role that such choices can play in promoting a long and healthy life.