Not diet and not exercise: scientists have revealed an unexpected secret to longevity

A large-scale analysis of 148 studies showed that strong social ties increase the likelihood of survival by 50% over 7.5 years of observation. The effect is comparable to known lifestyle factors, regardless of gender, age, and initial health.

Researchers conducted a meta-analysis of 148 studies covering more than 300,000 people who were followed for an average of 7.5 years. The results showed that participants with strong social ties had about a 50% higher probability of survival than those with weak social contacts. This pattern held regardless of gender, age, and initial health status. The influence of social relationships on the risk of death was comparable to factors such as diet and physical activity. The authors explain that close people provide emotional and practical support, help cope with stress, and influence daily habits. Long-term social isolation, on the other hand, deprives a person of this support. The researchers emphasize that this is a statistical association, not a guarantee of longevity, and that socializing does not replace medical prevention and a healthy lifestyle.