Cholesterol balance also appeared important. Rather than extremely low or high levels, centenarians tended to fall within moderate ranges, suggesting that physiological balance matters more than extremes. Similarly, lower baseline inflammation was associated with longer life, supporting the idea that reduced chronic immune activation helps preserve organ function over time.
Kidney function emerged as another key factor. Individuals who lived longest generally had better kidney-related markers earlier in life, which may improve the body’s ability to manage toxins, medications, and blood pressure across decades. Longevity appeared to result from many small advantages working together rather than one defining trait.
Blood type, while genetically fixed, played only a minor role. Some types may slightly influence clotting or disease risk, but they do not determine lifespan. Overall, the research emphasizes that longevity reflects lifelong patterns of balance, resilience, and early health, shaped by genetics, habits, environment, and time.
