What Are the Genetic and Environmental
Determinants of Exceptional Longevity?
Based upon human studies of identical and non-identical twins, longevity is attributed to approximately 25% genetics and 75% non-genetic factors (see figure above). This means there is considerable plasticity to longevity - that is, when it comes to how long you will live, lifestyle really matters. The relative contribution of genetics vs non-genetic factors to exceptional longevity is currently under investigation.