Nongenetic Risk Factors Outweigh Heredity

You may appreciate (or regret ) that some of your emotional traits are genetically inherited. Research indicates an OCEAN of attitudes can be passed down from generation to generation: Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Neuroticism.

But as we’ve said (about a million times) your physical health and longevity are not predetermined — and a new study confirms just how much power you have over your well-being.

Researchers looked at data from almost half a million subjects to figure out how influential family DNA is for 22 age-related diseases and premature death. It turns out that genetics explains less than 2% of your risk for those illnesses and death.

The study also identified 23 nongenetic influences on those diseases and premature death, including:

• Insufficient physical activity was associated with 17 diseases, such as cardiovascular problems and some cancers.

• Smoking was associated with 21 diseases (even though you may have thought lung cancer was the only risk).

• A poor diet lacking fiber and fresh produce, and containing red meat was also a factor in premature aging and death.

And if you pile up several nongenetic risk factors — such as like inactivity, poor sleep, and a polluted neighborhood — your risks for cerebrovascular diseases, stroke, COPD, rheumatoid arthritis, and liver and kidney diseases increase significantly.

We want to help you enjoy lifestyle choices that protect your health, increase your longevity, and elevate your happiness. "The Great Age Reboot" offers 40 ways to live longer younger, and you can check out "Dr. Oz's 90-Day Live Longer, Feel Younger Plan" on YouTube.