Five habits in middle age extend disease-free life

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A study has shown that five habits practiced by middle-aged people can increase the number of years lived without diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular pathologies, and cancer.

One of the largest studies examining the impact of lifestyle on longevity has shown that there are at least five habits that, if followed in middle age, can extend people’s disease-free lifespan. According to this data, the habits that contribute to healthy longevity are:

• a healthy, balanced diet,
• regular exercise,
• maintaining a healthy weight,
• quitting smoking and controlling alcohol consumption,
• getting enough sleep.

“Adhering to these habits in midlife can increase the number of years lived free of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer,” say researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health.

The scientists’ conclusion is supported by data from an analysis of data obtained during 34 years of follow-up of women (73,196) and 28 years of follow-up of men (38,366). The study authors found that women who practiced four or five healthy habits at age 50 lived an average of 34.4 years free of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer, compared with 23.7 years of a healthy lifestyle among women who practiced none of these healthy habits. Men who practiced four or five healthy habits at age 50 lived 31.1 years free of chronic disease, compared with 23.5 years among men who did not practice them.

“Heavy male smokers, as well as obese men and women, have the lowest disease-free life expectancy. Men and women who regularly sleep poorly or insufficiently are at high risk of obesity, coronary heart disease, and diabetes,” the experts concluded.