A new study proposes that individuals who look younger than their actual age may have longer life spans.
London (WiredPRNews.com) – A new study suggests that individuals who look younger than their age may live longer lives. As reported by the Associated Press (AP), the study found that perceived age may help predict survival in individuals older than 70, and is a widely used marker of health for patients.
Researchers reportedly tested 1,800 pairs of elderly twins, tracking their survival rate over a seven year period, and found that the older looking person in each twin set was more likely to die before the other.
As noted by the AP, one possible explanation identified by researchers for the link between perceived age and life span is biologically based. Individuals who look younger than they are reportedly may have longer telomeres, which is a component of DNA connected with the aging process.
More information about the study may be found in Monday’s online publication of the British medical journal BMJ.
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