New study finds genetics may play bigger role in how long you live — but lifestyle still matters

A new scientific study suggests genetics may play a much larger role in determining how long people live than previously believed — though experts stress that lifestyle choices still make a meaningful difference.

Research published in the journal Science found that genetics account for about 55% of differences in lifespan, roughly double earlier estimates. Scientists say older studies underestimated genetic influence because many people born before the 19th century died from infectious diseases or accidents, masking the impact of inherited traits.

By analyzing more modern data, researchers were able to isolate genetic effects more clearly. Lead author Uri Alon of Israel’s Weizmann Institute of Science said everyone has a genetically influenced lifespan range, but that doesn’t mean outcomes are fixed.

According to the study, lifestyle choices — including exercise, diet, and social connection — can shift a person’s life expectancy by about five years in either direction. Healthy habits may extend life, while unhealthy ones can shorten it.

Dr. Deborah Kado of the Stanford Longevity Center, who was not involved in the research, said longevity is shaped by both nature and nurture. While genes help set the baseline, behaviors still matter.

The study also notes that while average life expectancy in the United States reached a record 79 years in 2024, there appears to be a biological upper limit to human lifespan, currently around 122 years. Scientists say extending that maximum age would require major medical breakthroughs that are still decades away.

Researchers are now exploring how genetic pathways influence aging, with hopes of someday developing treatments that target aging itself rather than individual diseases. For now, experts emphasize focusing on proven strategies: staying active, eating well, maintaining social connections, and managing chronic health risks.

Ultimately, scientists agree that quality of life is just as important as length of life — and while genes play a powerful role, everyday choices remain critical.

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