The less educated and skilled people are likely to age prematurely, informs a new study published in “Brain, Behavior, and Immunity” journal.
DNA analysis showed that cellular aging is accelerated in adults with no qualifications as opposed to those with higher education. Experts believe that education is what leads people to a healthier life.
So far, studies have shown the link between aging and socio-economic status: those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds smoke more, exercise less, and have poorer access to health services than the rich people.
The new research shows that, beyond the social status and income, education level plays an important role in maintaining long-term health. People with higher education are faced with less stress or know better how to cope with it.
The study was conducted on a group of 400 people aged between 53 and 75. They had the length of their DNA section measured at the end of the chromosomes, called telomeres. The telomeres protect the chromosomes and are the indicators of aging process. The shorter telomeres are, the faster aging process is.