During the 1960s, when cancer research was in its infancy, the goal was to prevent tumors from spreading and improve patients’ lives. The causes of cancer were not interesting to anyone. The doctors said, “People get old, and some get cancer, so we have to help them as best we can.” New disciplines, such as immunotherapy and new drugs, have led to a 20% reduction in global cancer deaths. It is a victory that has brought millions of lives.
Research into the aging process is at the same stage as cancer research in the 1960s. Trying to eradicate aging is perceived as futile and viewed with hostility, even though it is the leading cause of mortality worldwide.
What are some common causes of aging?
Cause 1: Damage to the DNA and genome. A chain of information called DNA allows the body to manufacture. All information in DNA is in our genes, and all of our genes (between 25,000 and 30,000) are called the genome. With age, our DNA gets damaged and changes the code that allows cells to reproduce, which causes diseases.
Cause 2: Epigenetic modifications. Genetics is the study of genes, and epigenetics is the study of DNA. Every cell in the body has the same genetic information, but some will give the skin, others the brain, and others the kidney. Scientists believe epigenetic alterations cause diseases of aging, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Cause 3: Protein misfolding. Once the protein is correct, it fulfills its role. If this is impossible, the proteins will damage the cells and contaminate them. A protein causes Parkinson’s disease to be misfolded.
Cause 4: Dysfunction of the mitochondria. They are the ‘powerhouses of cells,’ producing 90% of the energy that cells, tissues, and organs need to function. Mitochondria contain their genes. Disorders affecting the brain and muscles are associated with abnormal genes.
Cause 5: Stem cell depletion. The essential cells of any organ are generated from stem cells. The body stores them and uses them when necessary. Some animals, like lizards, use them to regenerate a limb. In the heart and pancreas, some human organs do not contain stem cells and cannot heal themselves. As we age, our body retains fewer stem cells, and their decrease accelerates tissue degradation.
Throughout our lives, changes in DNA increase our biological age, making us much more vulnerable to aging-related diseases. Some toxic substances in our genes are weak: stress, infections, and trauma. Limiting our exposure to toxins and traumas is vital for protecting our genes in the long term.
Five tips for dealing with old age:
1 Slow down. If your walking pace slows down in your forties, it’s a sign that you’re aging faster than expected. Walking is one of the most straightforward exercises to regain strength: five minutes a day, five times a week. Increase the workout to 30 minutes five times a week.
2 Sunspots. It is common to see brown spots on the face, hands, and arms after the age of 50. You can treat them with sunscreen, but you should consult a doctor if the spot is black, its shape changes, or if there is bleeding.
3 Memory problems. Memory changes are associated with aging. However, most cases of Alzheimer’s and other types of dementia do not occur before age 65. You should eat healthy foods, keep up with social activities, and play sports to help keep your mind alive.
4 Joint pain. Not all older people experience joint stiffness, but the risk increases with age. After age 45, symptoms usually appear in men and after 55 in women. One hour of exercise a week can eliminate or reduce arthritis.
5 A significant turnaround in size. Body fat tends to accumulate with age. Greater waist circumference is associated with heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Regular physical activity and healthy eating eliminate excess belly and waist fat. Dark green leafy vegetables, calcareous vegetables, and seeds are essential in our diet.
This question has puzzled humanity for generations: Why do we age? As we age, our cells begin to deteriorate, resulting in a decline in our physical and cognitive abilities. Various factors, such as hormonal changes, DNA damage, and the accumulation of toxins in the body, cause this deterioration. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress accelerate the aging process. Aging is also related to a decrease in hormone production. With age, hormone production becomes erratic and causes a reduction in energy, libido, and muscle mass.
Photo: ImagebyFreepik
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