An Australian CSIRO research team built a digital genetic model and concluded that humans are biologically wired to live only about 38 years.
The software can estimate the lifespan of any vertebrate species that has ever walked the Earth.
What research reveals about humanity's built-in longevity
After examining the human genome, experts concluded that the inherent lifespan of contemporary humans hovers around 38 years. Earlier anthropological work points to a remarkably similar figure for our ancestors who roamed the planet tens of thousands of years ago.
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Neanderthals, too, rarely made it past 37.8 years. The biggest driver behind our extended years turned out to be the rise of medicine and scientific progress in general. With safer living conditions and better healthcare, modern humans now survive nearly twice as long as biology seems to intend.
Lifespan figures vary dramatically from one nation to the next. One of the central goals of any country's social strategy is pushing that number as high as possible.
How long prehistoric humans survived
Archaeological digs reveal that ancient men typically reached around 35 years of age, while women averaged closer to 30.
Longevity during the Greek classical period
Scientific advances and better tools allowed the Greeks to stretch their years significantly: men lived to roughly 41, and women to about 38. Women's shorter spans throughout history largely stem from the dangers of childbirth — countless mothers perished in labor or from complications when medical care was virtually nonexistent.
The mild Mediterranean climate also worked in the Greeks' favor, since crop failures and famines were uncommon in the region.
The Romans and Greeks passed their knowledge down the line, and the Byzantine era turned into a genuine golden age for its citizens. Men's average lifespan climbed to nearly 46, while women typically did not surpass 38.
Where the world's oldest citizens cluster
Humankind has been chasing the fountain of youth for as long as civilization has existed.
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The elixir remains undiscovered. Yet certain regions boast an unusually high concentration of residents who reach 100 while staying sharp and relatively healthy. What fuels these longevity hotspots?
Japan
The Japanese hold average life expectancy at roughly 83.9 years. Okinawa island hosts more than 400 centenarians. This remarkable feat spurred gerontologists to dig into the contributing factors. Scientists attribute the Japanese advantage to a diet rich in fresh seafood and soy, combined with the country's top-tier medical system.
Spain
Spaniards enjoy an average lifespan of 82.8 years, largely thanks to the classic Mediterranean diet — olive oil, fresh produce, and a glass of wine, which accompanies virtually every meal in the country.
Another factor Spaniards point to is the siesta, their legal afternoon rest from 2 to 5 p.m. Locals argue a leisurely meal demands two to three hours — time to actually eat and digest properly. Summer heat makes working through those hours dangerous anyway, reinforcing the cultural norm.
Cycling and walking also rank among the Spaniards' favorite pastimes, which contributes to their overall health.
Singapore
Singapore's economic boom has translated directly into longer lives. Accessible healthcare has helped the average resident reach 82.9 years, according to official data.
Three years ago, the country unveiled a multi-purpose park tailored to seniors and people with disabilities — a space for walks, board games, and socializing.
Singapore also imposes steep taxes on alcohol and tobacco, nudging residents toward healthier habits that support longer lifespans.
Switzerland
This peaceful European nation is famous for its banking sector and its high quality of life. Swiss men typically reach 81 years, putting the country among the global leaders.
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Swiss cuisine is celebrated for its natural dairy and artisanal cheeses.
South Korea
Recent gerontological studies rank South Korea at the top of the lifespan charts, with the average approaching 90 years. Koreans benefit from affordable, modern healthcare, solid infrastructure, and high-quality food. A plant-heavy diet packed with vegetables, soy products, and fermented foods appears to be the key. Such eating habits lower blood pressure and keep weight in check, giving South Koreans a much better shot at reaching old age than the typical European.
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The oldest human ever recorded
According to an obituary in The Times, one of the most extraordinary centenarians in history narrowly missed his next birthday in 1933. The report claimed he was 256 years old at the time of death.
Li Ching-yun reportedly fathered 180 descendants and wed 23 times. Even in his final years, he remained largely self-sufficient. People who knew him insisted he looked no older than 60, which is why many doubt the age listed on his documents.
Record holders for advanced age
Tanzilya Bisembeeva – 123 years. In October 2019, Russia lost one of its longest-lived residents. Tanzilya Bisembeeva made it through multiple wars, crediting her grit and genetics for her survival. Her passport listed her at 123 at the time of her death — a record that continues to inspire. Relatives recall that milk from her own cows was among her favorite foods. She spent her entire life working and never sat still, which may well have been her secret.
Kane Tanaka – 116 years old. By all official accounts, the current titleholder for oldest living person is Kane Tanaka, a resident of Fukuoka, Japan. She credits her longevity to a steady diet of chocolate and coffee, along with constant mental exercise. Even in her later years, she tackles crossword puzzles and stays sharp with math.
How would you shape your life if you knew 38 years was the norm? Share your thoughts in the comments!
