The "Longevity Map of Romania" project, carried out at national level by the Scientific Senate of the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania, continues to present localities where life expectancy is much higher than the national average. One such example is the commune Murgești, in Buzău County, which is characterised by a significant number of inhabitants over 80 years old in relation to the number of inhabitants. It is also an eloquent example of wisdom and resilience, values deeply rooted in the community.
The people of Murgești have developed a way of life that combines hard work with spiritual balance and calm adaptation to life's challenges.They speak with timeless wisdom about a natural diet and daily exercise, avoiding excesses, maintaining a positive attitude and a deep respect for tradition and family. Their testimonies reflect a life lived simply but with dignity, where the small joys of everyday life are appreciated and cherished.
Mr. Constantin Coman, aged 96, asserts that he has led a life characterised by a commitment to hard work, without resorting to abuse or internalising hardship. This approach, observed among numerous neighbours, exemplifies the benefits of a balanced lifestyle devoid of excesses for maintaining health and longevity. Mrs. Comana Hoțescu, aged 80, who continues to work daily, also emphasises the significance of consistent movement and physical activity.
The "Longevity Map of Romania" project represents a distinctive initiative, mapping all localities in the country and identifying the areas with the highest proportion of long-living seniors. In the initial quantitative research phase of the project, comprehensive data were gathered on over 370,000 individuals aged 85 and above, representing 1.94% of the total population. Murgești is one such locality, occupying a significant position on a prospective longevity map of the country, due to the considerable proportion of the elderly population residing there in comparison to the municipality's overall population. The population of Murgești commune is 727 inhabitants, representing a decline from the 966 inhabitants recorded in the previous census in 2011. The population of Murgești commune is ageing, with 60.52% of the inhabitants being over 50 years old. The 0-9 age segment represents only 5.23% of the population, indicating a low birth rate. The local economy is mainly based on agriculture, which is a characteristic feature of rural areas in Romania. Agricultural activities include the cultivation of cereals and vegetables as well as animal husbandry.
The project's research extends beyond the domain of statistics. In the qualitative research phase, which is currently underway, the team of experts from the Scientific Senate is investigating in detail the genetic and lifestyle factors that contribute to the longevity of seniors in the localities identified as focal points in the project. The study of possible lifestyle factors that contribute to longevity is complemented by genetic studies analysing biomarkers of longevity and other medical aspects. This research has the potential to contribute to the development of public policies to support active and healthy ageing of Romanians.
The "Longevity Map of Romania" represents a significant transdisciplinary scientific research endeavour, offering invaluable insights that can inform the development of effective public policies. The findings of the research, which will be presented in October at the Romanian Academy, will provide a robust foundation for the formulation of national strategies to enhance life expectancy in Romania. In a context where Romania currently ranks 33rd in Europe and 95th in the world in terms of life expectancy, with an average of only 76.6 years, according to Eurostat 2023, this project aims to inspire positive change by promoting factors that favour longer and healthier lives for all Romanians.
