Long-Term Obesity Associated with Accelerated Biological Aging in Young Adults
Persistent obesity in young adults is linked to the early expression of aging biomarkers, indicating accelerated biological aging and potential health risks. A new study highlights the importance of weight management for healthy aging.
Recent research has revealed a notable connection between long-term obesity and the increased expression of aging biomarkers in young adults aged 28 to 31 years. Published on July 17, 2025, in JAMA Network Open, the study underscores how persistent obesity over the years can induce molecular signatures typically associated with aging.
The study, led by Dr. Paulina Correa-Burrows from the Universidad de Chile, examined a cohort of 205 young adults from the Santiago Longitudinal Study, a comprehensive Chilean birth cohort. Participants' body mass index (BMI) trajectories were categorized as maintaining a healthy BMI, persisting obesity since adolescence, or persisting obesity since childhood. The mean duration of obesity was nearly 13 years for those with persistent obesity since adolescence and approximately 27 years for those with obesity since childhood.
Findings demonstrated that long-term obesity correlates strongly with elevated levels of biomarkers indicating antagonistic and integrative aging processes, including increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, fibroblast growth factor 21, insulin-like growth factors 1 and 2, along with metabolic hormones such as irisin and apelin. These molecular signatures suggest that individuals with prolonged obesity may experience premature physiological decline, with aging-related changes evident at a relatively young age.
The implications of this research are significant, suggesting that persistent obesity may accelerate biological aging, potentially increasing the risk for age-related diseases earlier in life. These findings highlight the importance of early intervention and sustained weight management to mitigate premature aging and health decline.
For more detailed information, the full study can be accessed via JAMA Network Open.
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Rising Mortality Rates in Children with Leukemia from Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Neighborhoods
Children with leukemia from the lowest socioeconomic neighborhoods face significantly higher mortality risks. A recent study highlights socioeconomic disparities affecting pediatric cancer survival and emphasizes the need for targeted interventions.
Innovative Coral-Inspired Capsule Enables Noninvasive Sampling of Small Intestine Bacteria
A novel coral-inspired ingestible capsule offers a noninvasive way to sample bacteria from the small intestine, providing new insights into the gut microbiome and its role in health and disease.
Uncovering Key Factors That Influence Active Aging in Communities
Discover how neighborhood quality and social bonds significantly impact physical activity among older adults, highlighting strategies to promote active aging across communities.
Heat and Toxic Chemical Exposure Pose Risks to Kidney Health in Agricultural Workers
A new study reveals that heat stress and exposure to toxic metals in agricultural workers significantly increase the risk of kidney injury, highlighting the importance of protective workplace measures in hot environments.