As a continuation of the research project "Longevity Map of Romania", The Scientific Senate of the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania has finalized a pilot genetic study, conducted on a selected sample of the localities with the highest longevity rate in the country. The analysis, a first in Romania and in South-East Europe, used epigenetic tests to investigate the relationship between genetic influence and the impact of environmental factors on the ageing process.
The pilot genetic study, carried out by the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania, used epigenetic determinations, a method that measures changes in DNA over a lifetime, to assess the biological age of the organism. In contrast to chronological age, i.e. the number of years of age, biological age reflects the actual state of health and rate of ageing of each individual. These tests highlight how lifestyle and environment influence gene expression and provide information about disease risk, inflammation levels and the rate of ageing.
The Scientific Senate's results show that environmental factors have a greater influence than genetic predisposition in determining longevity. This conclusion is in line with international studies in the field, which confirm that environment, diet, physical activity, sleep quality and exposure to pollution are all important determinants of ageing, sometimes even more so than inherited genetic baggage.
In the epigenetic study of the longest-living Romanians, cases where biological age exceeded chronological age were highlighted, indicating an accelerated rate of aging, as well as slightly increased levels of inflammation associated with lifestyle and exposure to external factors.
With this research, The Scientific Senate brings for the first time in Romania an integrated approach to longevity mapping and genetic assessment. The findings provide a solid basis for the development of public health policies for a longer and healthier life.
The research project "Longevity Map of Romania", initiated in 2024 by The Scientific Senate of the Dan Voiculescu Foundation for the Development of Romania, has confirmed that the rural environment in the hills and submontane areas of the country, through its natural conditions and traditional lifestyle, favors slower aging, and, implicitly, longevity. According to the data obtained in 2024, the top five localities with the highest percentage of people aged over 85 are Pardoși (Buzău County), Cireșu (Mehedinți County), Murgești (Buzău County), Seaca de Pădure (Dolj County) and Glăvile (Vâlcea County).
