US findings suggesting ageing is not a slow and steady process could explain spikes in health issues at certain ages

If you have noticed a sudden accumulation of wrinkles, aches and pains or a general sensation of having grown older almost overnight, there may be a scientific explanation. Research suggests that rather than being a slow and steady process, aging occurs in at least two accelerated bursts.

The study, which tracked thousands of different molecules in people aged 25 to 75, detected two major waves of age-related changes at around ages 44 and again at 60. The findings could explain why spikes in certain health issues including musculoskeletal problems and cardiovascular disease occur at certain ages.

“We’re not just changing gradually over time. There are some really dramatic changes,” said Prof Michael Snyder, a geneticist and director of the Center for Genomics and Personalized Medicine at Stanford University and senior author of the study.

“It turns out the mid-40s is a time of dramatic change, as is the early 60s – and that’s true no matter what class of molecules you look at.”

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  • IamSparticles@lemmy.zipEnglish
    20·
    3 months ago

    My anecdotal confirmation is that I started having a lot more health issues in my mid 40s. My eyesight got a lot worse. I started having issues with high blood pressure and cholesterol. I’m about to turn 50 and things have mostly stabilized. Medication and more regular exercise helps. My eyes are still bad but they aren’t getting worse as fast as they were.

    • ChickenLadyLovesLife@lemmy.worldEnglish
      10·
      3 months ago

      I started playing Ultimate Frisbee again at 44 and quickly regained most of my youthful speed and jumping ability (and my tendency to huck). So for me it was like the opposite of this article’s contention. Age 52/53 was a lot worse as that’s when I started getting arthritis.

      • IamSparticles@lemmy.zipEnglish
        3·
        3 months ago

        Yeah, well, that’s why it’s anecdote and not data, right? Everyone is going to be a little different, but the trend is there 😆

      • PalmTreeIsBestTree@lemmy.world
        7·
        3 months ago

        Heart attack got my Dad at 48 ten years ago. If anyone has a preexisting heart condition like my father had, then you need to get checked up often or you might die sooner.