Biological age, unlike chronological age (the number of years you've lived), is a measure of how old your body appears at the cellular level. It's determined by factors that are different for each person and is an estimated age that corresponds to an individual's mortality risk within a same-sex population.
Understanding Biological Age
Biological age is not just about how many candles are on your birthday cake; it's about how well your body is functioning. It considers various factors, including:
- Blood markers: These include compounds in your blood that provide clues about your physiological status and the speed of aging, such as inflammatory markers, lipid profiles and glucose levels.
- Lifestyle: Factors like diet, exercise, stress, and sleep impact your biological age.
- Genetics: While genetics do play a role, they are not the sole determinant.
- Environment: Exposure to pollutants and other external factors can influence biological age.
How is Biological Age Estimated?
The information provided from the reference indicates that biological age is "estimated as the equivalent age within the same-sex population which corresponds to an individual's mortality risk".
In essence, this involves comparing a person’s physiological markers to those of others in the same-sex population. Based on this comparison, a person might be deemed to have the biological age that corresponds to their risk of mortality.
What Does this Mean?
- Individual Variation: It's possible for someone to have a biological age that is younger or older than their chronological age. The reference notes this can range between 20 years younger and 20 years older.
- Predictive Tool: Biological age provides a more accurate look into your aging process and helps evaluate an individual's healthspan.
- Modifiable Factor: Unlike your chronological age, your biological age can be modified through lifestyle changes.
Example
Let's imagine:
- Person A is 50 years old chronologically, but has a healthy lifestyle and therefore, their biological age is calculated to be closer to a 40 year old. This person has a lower mortality risk than most people their age.
- Person B is also 50 years old chronologically, however, due to unhealthy lifestyle choices their biological age may be calculated to be closer to a 65 year old. This person has a higher mortality risk than others their age.
Key Takeaway
Biological age is a powerful concept that allows a deeper understanding of a person's physiological condition, rather than simply the years they have lived. The reference emphasizes that the aging signals found in blood markers highlight that biological age can vary widely compared to chronological age, up to 20 years older or younger.
