Aging is a complex process, which involves several variables. Though, most biological markers to establish how well or poorly a person is aging are based on data collected from different people at some point in life, but they did not belong to the same generation. The problem is that previous studies did not follow the aging of a group of individuals.

Scenarios that look like accelerated aging can simply be due to differences in exposure to elements such as leaded gasoline or cigarette smoke, specific to their generation.
Ahmad Hariri, Professor of Neuroscience at Duke University

The main challenge, in addition to accompanying a homogeneous group aging, was to find a parameter or measure of aging that was not affected by environmental or historical factors. For this, scientists gathered data from participants in Dunedin’s study, with 1,037 people observed since birth, between 1972 and 1973, in the city of the same name in New Zealand.

From 26 to 45 years old, participants of Dunedin’s study had their blood pressure, BMI (body mass index), glucose and cholesterol levels, and pulmonary and renal function monitored. Other parameters, such as gum recession and tooth damage, where also evaluated, in a total of 19 measurements.

What is the new tool designed to predict in older patients?

The new tool is designed to predict the development of dementia and other age-related diseases in older patients.

How can patients benefit from this dementia prediction tool?

Patients can benefit by adopting lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, to perhaps slow the aging process after receiving the prediction.

what was the main challenge in developing this aging prediction tool?

The main challenge was finding a measure of aging unaffected by environmental or historical factors, while also following a homogeneous group over time.

Which study provided the data for this new aging prediction tool?

The data for this new aging prediction tool came from Dunedin’s study, which observed 1,037 people from birth.

What types of measurements were taken from participants in the Dunedin study?

Measurements included blood pressure, BMI, glucose and cholesterol levels, pulmonary and renal function, gum recession, and tooth damage.

what is the significance of using data from a single generation for aging research?

Using data from a single generation helps avoid confounding factors related to different environmental exposures and historical events that affect people from different birth cohorts.