A recent study conducted by researchers at Oxford University has found that nurture, rather than nature, plays a more significant role in our risk of developing major diseases and premature death. The study, which analyzed 164 environmental factors and genetic risk scores for 22 major diseases, discovered that environmental factors explained 17% of the variation in death risk, while genetic predisposition accounted for less than 2%.
Factors such as smoking, socioeconomic status, and physical activity were found to have the most significant impact on health outcomes. Surprisingly, lifestyle choices like gym use, cheese consumption, and nap frequency also played a role in influencing disease risk. Living conditions, such as household income and whether or not someone uses an open fire for heating, were also important determinants of health.
Early life exposures, such as a mother smoking around the time of a child’s birth and weight at the age of 10, were found to influence ageing and risk of premature death several decades later. The study highlighted the potential for prevention through changes in lifestyle, policies to improve socioeconomic conditions, and increased physical activity.
The research, conducted using data from over one million individuals enrolled in the UK Biobank, revealed that environmental factors had a greater influence on diseases of the lung, heart, and liver, while genetic factors played a larger role in dementia and certain cancers. Dr. Austin Argentieri, who led the study, emphasized the importance of focusing on environmental and lifestyle interventions for the prevention of age-related diseases and premature death.
Overall, the study underscores the significant impact of environmental and lifestyle factors on health outcomes and the potential benefits of addressing modifiable risk factors for improving overall health and longevity.
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