Scientists Identify Common Cause of Accelerated Aging

American scientists have found that stress from intense study and work accelerates cellular aging by shortening telomeres. A study of 250 medical students showed that stress speeds up telomere shortening sixfold, leading to premature aging and increased risk of chronic diseases.

Researchers at the University of Michigan discovered that stress from intensive study and professional duties significantly accelerates cellular aging through the shortening of telomeres—protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. The study involved 250 medical interns. Measurements of telomere length before and after a period of high workload showed that stress accelerates telomere shortening six times faster than normal, equivalent to significant biological aging. Students with higher stress levels had the shortest telomeres. Telomere shortening is linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers, and neurological disorders. To slow the process, meditation, breathing exercises, physical activity, and a healthy diet rich in antioxidants and omega-3s are recommended.