Richard Parks A new study has revealed that individuals from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds may experience faster biological ageing, putting them at higher risk for age-related diseases. Research conducted in the UK suggests that people in lower socioeconomic groups have a 20% higher chance of developing conditions linked to ageing, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, compared to their wealthier counterparts. The study emphasizes that social advantage can not only improve health but also slow the ageing process itself.
Socioeconomic Status and Health Risks
People with higher socioeconomic status tend to experience slower biological ageing and fewer age-related health issues. Researchers in the UK conducted an extensive study, focusing on 83 diseases associated with ageing, including osteoporosis, cataracts, and enlarged prostate. They also examined blood tests measuring plasma proteins, which are indicators of biological ageing.
To explore the connection between socioeconomic status and health, the researchers analyzed data related to education, neighborhood quality, and household income. Their findings, published in Nature Medicine, revealed that individuals with lower socioeconomic status face a 20% greater risk of developing diseases linked to ageing than those from wealthier backgrounds.
Mika Kivimaki, a professor at University College London (UCL) and the lead author of the study, stated, “For decades, we have known that social advantage leads to better health, but our research suggests it may also slow ageing itself.” This insight highlights the importance of improving living conditions and access to resources for better health outcomes.
Significant Disparities in Health Risks
The study uncovered even starker disparities in some diseases. The most disadvantaged individuals faced twice the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, liver disease, heart disease, lung cancer, and stroke compared to those in the most privileged group.
This stark contrast underscores how deeply socioeconomic status influences biological ageing and overall health. The researchers suggest that the stress of living in less privileged conditions, combined with factors such as poor diet, limited access to healthcare, and higher rates of smoking, contribute to these heightened risks.
The Role of Proteins in Biological Ageing
The study also explored the role of plasma proteins in biological ageing. These proteins, which are found in the blood, can serve as indicators of biological ageing, reflecting the health of various organs and systems. Tony Wyss-Coray, a professor at Stanford University and one of the study’s authors, explained, “Ageing is reflected in the composition of proteins in our blood, which includes thousands of proteins linked to biological ageing across different organs.”
The research found that fourteen plasma proteins were influenced by socioeconomic background, with some of these proteins regulating inflammation and cellular stress responses—both known to contribute to ageing. This suggests that a disadvantaged socioeconomic status may lead to an accumulation of factors that accelerate biological ageing at the cellular level.
Upward Mobility and Health Improvements
Interestingly, the study also highlighted the potential positive effects of upward social mobility on biological ageing. Individuals who began with lower education levels but later achieved middle or high social status showed more favorable protein profiles, suggesting that improving one’s socioeconomic position could have a beneficial impact on biological health.
While the study remains observational and does not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the authors propose that factors like stress, smoking, diet, exercise, and access to healthcare all play a significant role in influencing the ageing process. This underscores the need for policies that promote equality and improve living conditions, particularly for those in disadvantaged communities.
This research adds to the growing body of evidence that socioeconomic factors can profoundly influence health, particularly in terms of biological ageing. With a clear link between social disadvantage and increased risk of age-related diseases, it is evident that addressing these disparities can play a crucial role in promoting healthier, longer lives for all individuals, regardless of their background. While upward mobility can help, systemic changes are needed to ensure that everyone has the opportunity for healthy ageing.