A genetic test that can predict whether a person is likely to
live long enough to see their 100th birthday has been developed
by scientists. Researchers at Boston University claim the test
can identify those who can look forward to an exceptionally long
life with 77% accuracy. They designed the test after a major
study into the genetic makeup of centenarians highlighted a host
of DNA variants that boost a person's chances of reaching a ripe
old age. Many of the genetic markers the scientists found stave
off common, and often lethal, age-related diseases, such as
heart disease, dementia and high blood pressure. The US
researchers investigated the genetic secrets of a longer life
after studies showed that living beyond 100 often runs in
families. "These families might share healthy lifestyles, but it
also suggests there is a strong genetic background to
exceptional longevity," said Professor Paola Sebastiani, a
biostatistician at Boston University school for public health.
Lifespan is governed by a complex inte