These days we all expect to live longer, and indeed, average life expectancy is on the rise. A newborn baby boy born in the UK could expect to live to 77.4 years and a newborn baby girl could expect to live to 81.6 years if mortality rates remain the same as they were up to 2008.
With each passing generation we seem to add a few additional years to our life expectancies, and eventually with the aid of continuing medical progression, it is conceivable that we may see many more of the population reaching the magic 100 year mark.
However, until we have evidence of continual medical advancements coming into play in the future, how long could we realistically expect to live today? To give us an estimate of how long an individual may live, and if that individual could in fact live into their 100th year, research has shown we may be able to look into our genes.
These signposts, found in the genes of long-lived individuals may now be able to provide a strong likely hood of predicting the probability of reaching your 100th birthday. By analysing around 150 of these signposts, a research team from the University of Boston in the United States have been able to develop a formula or 'scientific score card' to work out life expectancy and prolonged existence.
This is the largest study of the human genome of its kind. Genomes of 1,000 people that have lived or are living into their 100th year were analysed and compared to genes of randomly selected individuals.
This allowed the team to then recognize genetic markers found in the genomes of individuals living until 100 where noticeably diverse from those of the random collection of genes taken. In tests, their theory achieved an accuracy of over 77%.
However having this gene is no guarantee of longevity, as there are many additional elements to consider, such as the person's life style, working history, diet and any addictions they may have succumb to during the course of their lives.
With each passing generation we seem to add a few additional years to our life expectancies, and eventually with the aid of continuing medical progression, it is conceivable that we may see many more of the population reaching the magic 100 year mark.
However, until we have evidence of continual medical advancements coming into play in the future, how long could we realistically expect to live today? To give us an estimate of how long an individual may live, and if that individual could in fact live into their 100th year, research has shown we may be able to look into our genes.
These signposts, found in the genes of long-lived individuals may now be able to provide a strong likely hood of predicting the probability of reaching your 100th birthday. By analysing around 150 of these signposts, a research team from the University of Boston in the United States have been able to develop a formula or 'scientific score card' to work out life expectancy and prolonged existence.
This is the largest study of the human genome of its kind. Genomes of 1,000 people that have lived or are living into their 100th year were analysed and compared to genes of randomly selected individuals.
This allowed the team to then recognize genetic markers found in the genomes of individuals living until 100 where noticeably diverse from those of the random collection of genes taken. In tests, their theory achieved an accuracy of over 77%.
However having this gene is no guarantee of longevity, as there are many additional elements to consider, such as the person's life style, working history, diet and any addictions they may have succumb to during the course of their lives.
About the Author:
Have you ever considered the fact you may live way beyond the retirement age? If so then now is the time to consider a Medical Health Plan as it means you will always have help with the cost of remaining healthy. cash plans are a good idea if you require basic cover for day to day health care.
No comments:
Post a Comment