Longevity

Longevity

Longevity refers to the duration of life of an organism or a group of organisms. It is often used in the context of human life span, but it can also be applied to other organisms. The study of longevity is part of the field of gerontology.

Healthspan, parental lifespan, and longevity are highly genetically correlated

Factors Influencing Longevity

Several factors can influence longevity, including genetics, lifestyle, environment, and medical care.

Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in determining an individual's potential lifespan. Certain genes, known as longevity genes, are associated with long life spans in various organisms.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle choices, such as diet, exercise, and avoidance of harmful habits like smoking, can also significantly influence longevity. A healthy lifestyle can help to prevent chronic diseases and improve quality of life.

Environment

The environment in which an individual lives can also impact their longevity. Factors such as air and water quality, access to medical care, and social support can all influence lifespan.

Medical Care

Access to quality medical care can also significantly impact an individual's longevity. Preventive healthcare, including regular check-ups and screenings, can help to detect and treat diseases early, potentially extending life span.

Longevity in Different Species

Longevity varies widely among different species. Some organisms, like the bowhead whale and the giant tortoise, are known for their exceptionally long lifespans. Others, like the mayfly, have very short lifespans.

Human Longevity

Human longevity has increased significantly over the past century, largely due to improvements in medical care, nutrition, and sanitation. The oldest verified person on record lived to be 122 years and 164 days old.

See Also

• Life expectancy
• Senescence
• Aging
• Centenarian
• Supercentenarian

Longevity Resources
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