- Is longevity just genetics? Why avoiding major diseases may determine how long we live?
When we ponder upon how long and how well we live, the first thing that comes to mind is probably genetics, or the traits we inherit from our parents. It turns out, however, that our DNA is just a part of the story, and this is something backed up by science and plenty of research. According to National Geographic, when it comes to the question of our lifespan, genetics account for roughly 20%. It may be hard to believe for some, but the remaining 80% is determined by our lifestyle, our surrounding, and those seemingly tiny decisions we make every single day.
This means that what we do, and what we decide to avoid, plays a role more important than many of us assume.
Perhaps the best sign of healthy aging is the avoidance of major chronic diseases and conditions.
If we make it into our 60s, 70s, 80s, and even beyond, without experiencing any serious chronic diseases, that says plenty about our body and how its internal systems communicate with each other, how they repair damage, and how they stay balanced.
As per the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and respiratory problems like those affecting the lungs, cause about 74% of deaths globally, especially among the elderly.
When we are free from these diseases, it doesn’t only increase our lifespan but it also improves our “healthspan,” which is basically the time we live without being affected by any serious illness.
This is why a number of experts argue that the meaning of true longevity is not just about the number of years lived, but also about the quality of those years.
Heart Disease
Heart disease remains the leading cause of deaths globally. According to Harvard Health, the damage happens gradually as the arteries lose their flex and blood pressure rises, often as a result of our daily habits, our diet, and how we cope with managing the stress we experience.
Making it into your 60s and beyond without suffering from heart issues is an indicator of the strength of your body. The healthy heart can be seen as an engine for everything else. It helps deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, keeps your brain healthy, maintains your stamina, and keeps your spirits high. Exercise, good nutrition, and mental balance aren’t just about avoiding diagnosis but also about adding quality into your life.
Diabetes
Type II diabetes is much more than just a “blood sugar issue.” According to Harvard Health, this condition silently damages blood vessels and nerves, which can easily lead to heart disease, kidney failure, vision loss, mental decline, and frequent infections.
Being able to stay diabetes-free in older age is a signal of a healthy metabolism. It means your body is still great at managing energy, fixing damaged tissue, and keeping inflammation in check. All this, consequently, leads to better blood flow, clearer mind, and healthier kidneys. Your day-to-day habits, especially your diet and level of activity, are incredibly powerful predictors of diabetes risk even before any symptoms appear.
Stroke and Circulatory Diseases
A stroke happens due to interruption of blood flow in the brain, or rupture of a blood vessel in the brain. Even when it’s not fatal, the consequences of a stroke can still be devastating. Often, stroke results in the loss of speech, memory, movement, and our independence.
Should you reach old age without suffering a stroke or any serious blockage, it shows that your vascular system is strong, your arteries are flexible, and your blood flow is smooth. The World Health Organization states that such strong circulation not only nourishes and protects the brain but also aids in the healing of wounds and the maintenance of the immune system, both of which are essential for fighting off infections and staying strong in old age.
Cancer
In simple words, cancer happens when our body cells start growing uncontrollably. In such cases, our immune system is the body’s first line of defense. The immune system works constantly, trying to detect abnormal cells in the body and eliminating them before they turn into a bigger issue.
When we reach old age without ever been diagnosed with any form of cancer that’s a strong indicator of a resilient immune system, low levels of chronic inflammation, and effective DNA repair capabilities, all of which is influenced by how we eat, how we sleep, and how we deal with stress. While genetics do play part in the likelihood of developing cancer, our environment and life style choices, such as avoiding smoking and drinking alcohol, are incredibly powerful influence in tipping scales in our favor.
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