New study unlocks mystery behind why some ancient people lived to 100 years or more

By Maria Mocerino – Interesting Engineering

Why do people in Italy, specifically, live longer than most? Well, according to DNA samples, it’s their genetic ancestry.

A recent study reached into the prehistoric past to uncover why people currently 100 or older are still living.

Previous studies identified specific genes related to a longer life span. However, the recent study in GeroScience ventured deeper into the subject by investigating whether ancient populations factor into the complex equation, where genetics, environment, and lifestyle all play a role in how long we live.