Genetic test predicts lifespan? Not ready for prime time.

The Buzz: Researchers report a study identifying genetic markers for longevity
Citation: New York Times; July 2, 2010
Summary: A study published in this week's issue of Science reports the identification of genetic markers associated with living to 100, and claims a 77% acuracy rate. Researchers analyzed the DNA of 1,055 centenarians and identified a pattern of 150 genetic markers which seemed to confer longevity. They then looked at another group of centenarians and found 77% of them had the same pattern. While the study authors admit the biology behind these findings has yet to be explained, they feel this may be an importnat step towards understanding the genetics of longevity. Of special interest, the centenarians had equal numbers of disease-related genetic markers, suggesting these 150 may be protective factors that delay the onset of diseases of old age.
Commentary: The bottom line - this is simply a statistical analysis that correlates a certain genetic make-up with longevity. The test is not available to the general public and is likely not to be any time soon. But given the amount of press it is getting, understanding the implications, and lack thereof, may be helpful in talking to our patients.
By: Spencer Blackman MD