Blood Proteins Estimate Who Ages Faster in Muscles and Bones
Graded Moderate — over 21,000 people were followed after a blood sample; but living conditions were recorded only once, and the test has not yet been checked in other groups.
- Design
- Prospective cohort study
- Participants
- 21,070
- Duration
- —
- Funding
- Recruitment Program for Young Professionals of China; Sichuan and Zhejiang…
People whose blood proteins made their muscles and bones look one year older had an 8 percent higher risk of dying.
Muscles, bones and joints do not age at the same pace in everyone. A new blood test estimates their age from 39 proteins in the blood. People whose test result was one year older than their real age had an 8 percent higher risk of dying.
The test was built on blood samples from 21,070 people in the UK Biobank, a large British health study. Their average age was 55, and none had a condition affecting muscles or bones at the start. They were then followed over time. A test age running ahead was also linked to more osteoarthritis, gout, rheumatoid arthritis and low back pain. Air pollution, smoking, emotional strain and social disadvantage went along with an older estimated age. Nearby green space, a strong grip and a healthy diet went along with a younger one.
These links do not show that such living conditions speed up aging. They were measured only once. Most participants were also healthy, fairly well off and white. The authors say the test must be confirmed in other data before wider use.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.