How Much of Longevity Is Actually in Our Control?

Playing the Hand You’ve Been Dealt: Longevity is the hottest of health topics lately, and you could potentially spend a ton of time and money on products, programs, regimens, and routines that promise to help you live longer. But new research published in the journal Science indicates that our genes have more impact on lifespan than we previously thought. 

The Study: The researchers analyzed more than a century’s worth of data from three different Scandinavian twin cohorts. They separated their deaths into ones by extrinsic reasons (caused by external factors, like accidents) and intrinsic ones (those caused by internal factors, like cardiovascular disease). This separation allowed the researchers to get a much more accurate picture of deaths that are tied to genetic factors. 

The Takeaway: They found genetics accounted for at least 50% of our lifespan — much higher than the 6% to 33% researchers had previously thought. The study authors say a next step could be for scientists to work on isolating the specific genes that directly impact longevity.

Keep in Mind: Even though our genes appear to play a bigger role in lifespan, we do still have some input. There’s still that 50% that’s influenced by our health habits and behaviors (for better or for worse).