Personality genes influence longevity - MSNewsNow.com - Jackson, MS

Personality genes influence longevity

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JACKSON, MS (Mississippi News Now) -

How do you live to reach one hundred? New research suggests personality genes may play a role.

Researchers studied a group of five hundred elderly, Ashkenazi Jews. They chose this population because they are genetically similar -- and it would be easy to spot differences in their genes.

They found those who lived to age one hundred had a mostly positive attitude towards life. They were optimistic, easy going and enjoyed laughter.

They say these personality traits are genetically-based, and appear to play an important role in longevity.

- Study published in the journal Aging.
- Study conducted at Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

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