Education level affects the rate of biological aging

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, adults without a high school degree were, on average, one year older biologically than those with a college degree. However, between 2015 and 2018, this difference widened to nearly two years.

“The findings suggest that people with higher levels of education age biologically slower,” said Assistant Professor Mateo Farina.

Interestingly, however, factors such as smoking, drug consumption, or obesity were insufficient to explain these aging differences.

This study supports other research on biological aging and longevity. Another study from Columbia University found that individuals who have lost two or more loved ones are biologically older, based on epigenetic measures.

"The effects of the loss of loved ones at different stages of life on DNA markers have been understudied. This study provides compelling evidence that loss from childhood to adulthood accelerates biological aging," said Dr. Allison Aiello.

While visible signs of aging include wrinkles, graying hair and limited mobility, changes at the cellular level can only be detected through medical tests.

As a result, factors such as genetic structure, chronic diseases, quality of life, sleep patterns, nutrition and physical activity play a major role in affecting biological aging.