The Importance of Lifestyle on Longevity: Study Shows Healthy Habits Can Outweigh Genetics
A recent international study published in the journal BMJ Evidence-Based Medicine has found that lifestyle habits have a significant impact on life expectancy, even for individuals with a genetic predisposition to premature death. The study, which involved over 350 thousand people, found that individuals with unhealthy lifestyles had a 78% higher risk of premature death compared to those with healthy habits. In contrast, genetics only accounted for a 21% increase in the risk of early death.
The researchers also discovered that individuals with a negative genetic profile who adhered to healthy lifestyles were able to reduce their risk by 54%, resulting in an additional 5.2 years of life gained. These findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles as a means of counteracting genetic factors that may impact longevity.
In light of these results, the researchers suggest that public health policies aimed at promoting healthy habits could play a crucial role in improving overall health outcomes and mitigating the impact of genetic factors on human lifespan.
However, as the study emphasizes the importance of healthy lifestyles, a separate research conducted by the European Office of the WHO revealed the negative effects of the pandemic on children’s lifestyle habits. The study found that during the pandemic, children spent more time watching TV, using video games, and engaging with social media, while the time spent in outdoor activities decreased. This shift in behavior has led to a doubling in the percentage of children perceived as overweight by their parents.
In Italy, in particular, the reduction in outdoor activities was more severe, with a 40% decrease reported. Additionally, there was a significant increase in the perceived overweight of children, rising from 10% to 25%. The consumption of fruits and vegetables also decreased during this period, while the intake of sweet and savory snacks increased.
These findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy habits and the need for interventions to support individuals, especially children, in maintaining a healthy lifestyle during challenging times. As the study demonstrates, lifestyle choices can have a profound impact on longevity, regardless of genetic predispositions.