Hormone research suggests rich live longer

Andy Bloxham -

... DHEAS - or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate - is produced by the brain, adrenal glands and sexual organs and is a guide to life expectancy.

Researchers from University College London, working on the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, found evidence that biological ageing is slower among people with better socio-economic circumstances.

It found that the wealthier people were, the higher their levels of DHEAS.

The discovery raises the possibility that the hormone could be artificially produced and used to make people live longer.

The scientists also found that those with higher levels of it tended to do greater amounts of exercise, lead a more active life with lots of pastimes, and have more friends and family.

Production of it is greatest during childhood and the teenage years, before it gradually declines through adult life - by the age of 80 it could be just 10 per cent of the peak level of teenagers.

Having more DHEAS in the body is linked to a better memory and ability to cope with mental tasks, particularly in men.

The research also found higher levels of a second hormone - growth factor I (IGF-I) - in those who are wealthier. ... Less wealthy people were also likely to have higher levels of obesity, were more likely to smoke, while they took less exercise and ate less fruit and vegetables than those who were better off. They were also more likely to suffer from hypertension and diabetes. ...

via Hormone research suggests rich live longer - Telegraph.