New research indicates ageing may not be a gradual process but occurs in biological surges, with significant shifts identified around ages 44 and 60, and a turning point near 50. Studies from China and Stanford suggest these changes impact metabolism, cardiovascular health, and organ function, highlighting the importance of midlife lifestyle choices.
A study of over 6.4 million young adults in South Korea found that LDL cholesterol levels above 130 mg/dL significantly increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, especially when combined with other risk factors like obesity and smoking.
A study of over 320,000 adults in South Korea found that living in areas with more parks and green spaces significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The protective effect was more pronounced in large cities, suggesting parks act as crucial public health infrastructure.
A large study of over 72,000 people found that increasing daily step count significantly reduces death and heart disease risk, even for those who sit for long periods. Walking 9,000-10,000 steps daily showed the greatest benefit.
Researchers have finally understood what Leonardo da Vinci was sketching 500 years ago—a mysterious mesh-like structure inside the heart called trabeculae. Using MRI scans from the UK Biobank and genetic analysis, scientists have discovered these spongy patterns inside the heart's ventricles may influence blood flow and could be linked to cardiovascular disease risk. Da Vinci originally thought the structures warmed blood, but modern science reveals they follow fractal patterns coded in genetics.
UCL researchers discovered signature changes in gut microbiome that identify people at greater risk of Parkinson's disease before symptoms develop. The study found 176 gut microbe species differed in Parkinson's patients, with similar changes in those with genetic risk but no symptoms. The findings raise hopes for dietary interventions and treatments that reshape the microbiome to prevent or delay the disease.
