Research

  • Positive mindset may help preserve memory in midlife

    A more positive outlook in midlife could help protect against memory decline, according to a study tracking more than 10,000 adults aged over 50 across 16 years. Researchers found that people reporting greater happiness, confidence and a sense of control went on to perform better in memory tests, even after accounting for depression and other [...]

  • Air pollution cuts UK life expectancy by nearly two years – study

    Air pollution is shortening UK life expectancy by 1.8 years and is linked to more than 500 deaths every week, with costs to the NHS and economy exceeding £500m weekly, new research has found. Toxic air, inhaled by 99 per cent of the population, causes damage to almost every organ – even at low levels [...]

  • NHS rejects Alzheimer’s drugs over cost concerns

    Two new Alzheimer’s drugs have been rejected for NHS use after health officials said the benefits were too limited to justify potential costs of up to £1bn a year. Donanemab and lecanemab are antibody-based treatments that target the underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease, rather than only managing symptoms. They work by binding to amyloid – [...]

  • Increased sociability may hint at early Alzheimer’s risk

    People with a higher genetic risk of Alzheimer’s disease may report greater social activity and stronger family relationships in the early stages, new research suggests. The findings challenge the long-held belief that social withdrawal is an early symptom of dementia. Instead, those at increased genetic risk may become more socially engaged, at least in the [...]

  • Digital inhalers may spot COPD flare-ups weeks early

    Digital inhalers that track breathing patterns could detect flare-ups of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) up to two weeks before symptoms appear, new research suggests. The devices monitor changes in how much air a patient inhales and how long inhalation takes, helping identify early signs of acute exacerbations – episodes where symptoms suddenly worsen. Researchers [...]

  • Muscle ‘control centre’ may improve injury recovery in old age

    Cells that help manage muscle repair have been identified, offering potential new ways to treat age-related muscle loss and improve healing in older adults. Researchers have discovered that a type of cell known as fibro-adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) plays a key role in coordinating the body’s muscle regeneration process after injury. The study found that these [...]

  • Common molecule may help reverse muscle ageing

    A naturally occurring molecule in the body could help reverse muscle ageing and reduce frailty in older adults, a new study suggests. Scientists found that prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), a chemical messenger in the body, can restore the function of aged muscle stem cells – the cells responsible for repairing damaged muscle tissue. The research suggests [...]

  • Body’s physical decline starts at 34, study suggests

    The human body begins a measurable physical decline at age 34, with further significant shifts in the ageing process occurring at 60 and 78, new research suggests. Rather than progressing steadily, the findings indicate ageing accelerates in phases, driven by changes in specific proteins found in the blood. The study identified three major ageing milestones [...]

  • Daily intake of alcohol-free beer may raise risk of diabetes and obesity, researchers find

    Alcohol-free beer, increasingly popular among health-conscious drinkers, could raise the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity if consumed daily, new research suggests. While sales are booming and demand for alcohol-free options is higher than ever, scientists say some of these drinks may cause harmful changes to the body’s metabolism. The study involved 44 healthy [...]

  • Research round up: shorter telomeres linked to age-related brain diseases, targeted immunotherapy for tackling Alzheimer’s, and more

    Age Tech World explores the latest research developments in ageing and longevity. Shorter telomeres linked to increased risk of age-related brain diseases Researchers have found evidence suggesting that healthier lifestyle choices could mitigate telomere length-associated risks. The risk of stroke, dementia, and late-life depression (LLD) increases for people as they get older. Likewise, telomeres, which [...]