© Shutterstock

The role of environment in health -

A recent Oxford Population Health study showed that environmental factors influence your health and lifespan more than genetics. In other words, the lifestyle choices you make and your living conditions, significantly impact risk related to aging and disease.

© Shutterstock

The scope of the study -

Researchers analyzed data from close to half a million UK Biobank participants. They assessed the influence of 164 environmental factors and genetic risk scores across 22 major diseases.

© Shutterstock

Key findings at a glance -

The study discovered that environmental factors accounted for 17% of the variation in premature death risk, while genetic predisposition was less than 2%.

© Shutterstock

The most influential environmental factors -

The factors that had the greatest effect on mortality and biological aging were smoking, socioeconomic status, physical activity, and living conditions.

© Shutterstock

Smoking’s wide-ranging effects -

Smoking, one of the most damaging lifestyle factors, was linked to 21 different diseases.

© Shutterstock

Socioeconomic factors and disease risk -

Household income, homeownership, and employment status were associated with 19 diseases. This showed how financial stability can affect long-term health outcomes.

© Shutterstock

Physical activity -

Regular exercise was linked to a lower risk of 17 diseases.

© Shutterstock

A path to better health -

Accordingly, 23 of the 25 key environmental factors identified can be changed and provide individuals and policymakers with opportunities to improve public health.

© Shutterstock

The impact of early life exposures -

Many factors like childhood body weight and maternal smoking around birth can influence aging and disease risk decades later.

© Shutterstock

Disease-specific influences -

Environmental exposure had a more impactful effect on lung, heart, and liver diseases. On the other hand, genetic predisposition played a dominant role in conditions like dementia and breast cancer.

© Shutterstock

The role of an “aging clock” -

The researchers used an "aging clock" that was based on blood protein levels to track biological aging, as well as to link environmental exposures to earlier mortality.

© Shutterstock

The exposome approach -

By examining various environmental factors, researchers were able to give a comprehensive overview of how lifestyle and environment shape health-related outcomes.

© Shutterstock

A call for policy action -

Experts are emphasizing a need for governmental policies to improve socioeconomic conditions, reduce smoking rates, and encourage physical activity to hopefully help enhance public health.

© Shutterstock

Addressing health inequality -

Systemic change is desperately needed so that factors like income and postcode do not determine lifespan.

© Shutterstock

Small factors, big impact -

Individual environmental exposures may have minor effects, but their combined influence can significantly contribute to health risks and premature death.

© Shutterstock

The need for integrated health strategies -

The study shows that you should address multiple environmental risk factors, as it could provide a more effective strategy to help reduce chronic disease and improve the longevity of your life.

© Shutterstock

A shift in scientific approaches -

While traditional studies focus on single risk factors, this research used a hypothesis-free method so it could identify the most significant contributors to aging and disease.

© Shutterstock

The future of environmental health research -

Through a combination of computational methods, smart technology, and epidemiological data, researchers hope to explore the long-term impact of environmental exposures.

© Shutterstock

Emerging threats and unknowns -

Questions remain about the effects of modern exposures, including new pathogens like COVID-19 and bird flu as well as chemicals such as pesticides and plastics on long-term health.

© Shutterstock

How to take control of your health -

Prevention is key when it comes to aging and disease. Small lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on long-term health and longevity.

© Shutterstock

Quit smoking -

One of the most influential and impactful ways to lower the risk for disease and improve your overall health is to quit smoking.

© Shutterstock

Stay active -

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to reduce disease risk.

© Shutterstock

Eat a balanced diet -

Be sure to eat well and avoid fatty, oily, and salty foods. Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

© Shutterstock

Manage stress -

If you are constantly stressed and anxious it can accelerate aging and potentially increase disease risk. Be sure to practice mindfulness and relaxation.

© Shutterstock

Get enough sleep -

Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night to support immune function and brain health.

© Shutterstock

Limit alcohol consumption -

Excessive drinking can lead to liver disease, heart disease, and more. Moderation is key or refraining from consuming alcohol in general. 

© Shutterstock

Monitor your health -

Ensure you're regularly meeting with your doctor or medical professional so you can detect problems early on.

© Shutterstock

Stay socially connected -

Social engagement can help improve mental health and help keep you sharp.

© Shutterstock

Maintain a healthy weight -

Obesity is linked to many chronic diseases. Focus on working out and eating healthy.

Sources: (Science Daily) (Harvard Health) (UCSF Health)

See also: Healthy eating habits from around the world

© Shutterstock