Innovative Health Assessment Tool Offers Better Estimation of Biological Age Than Traditional Methods

Researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine have developed a pioneering health assessment tool known as the Health Octo Tool, designed to more accurately determine an individual's biological age. Unlike conventional methods that focus on separate diseases or health conditions, this new approach incorporates eight metrics derived from routine physical exams and lab tests to evaluate the overall health and aging process.

The concept behind the tool hinges on 'health entropy,' which measures the cumulative molecular and cellular damage in the body, influencing organ function and systemic health. By analyzing data from extensive longitudinal studies, including the Baltimore Longitudinal Study on Aging, the researchers were able to quantify aging at the organ level, creating specific metrics such as Bodily System-Specific Age, Body Clock, and various rates of functional decline like walking speed and risk of disability.

This multifaceted model not only predicts the overall biological age but also identifies how different organ systems age at varying rates. It further highlights how minor health issues, such as untreated hypertension in early life, can significantly impact aging trajectories. This insight underscores the importance of early intervention.

Moreover, the team is developing a digital application that enables individuals and healthcare providers to assess biological ages, monitor changes over time, and evaluate the effects of lifestyle choices or medical treatments. This innovation aims to personalize aging management, encouraging proactive health strategies.

The study's senior authors, including Dr. Shabnam Salimi, emphasize that understanding the interconnectedness of different systems and early health management can profoundly influence longevity. This new tool represents a significant step toward precision aging, potentially guiding personalized interventions to promote healthier and longer lives.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-health-tool-gauges-body-biological.html