In a recent study published in the journal Nature Human Behavior , researchers evaluated the causal effects of mental well-being on genetically independent aging phenotype (aging GIP). Human life expectancy has increased over time; however, the aging population presents challenges to individuals and society. Mental well-being correlates with lifestyle behaviors and morbidity.
Studies have linked mental well-being with physical health and increased survival. Besides, socioeconomic status (SES) is interlinked with aging and mental well-being. However, a causal relationship between healthy aging and mental well-being has yet to be established.
Study: Mendelian randomization evidence for the causal effect of mental well-being on healthy aging . Image Credit: Darren Baker / Shutterstock In the present study, researchers assessed the effects of mental well-being on aging phenotypes. This Mendelian randomization (MR) study evaluated the causal associations between aging phenotypes and mental well-being traits and screened candidate mediators in the relationship between aging GIP and the well-being spectrum.
Besides, the team also explored whether the causal effects were SES-independent. Summary-level genome-wide association study (GWAS) data were derived from people of European descent. Exposures included the well-being spectrum, life satisfaction, neuroticism, depressive symptoms, and positive affect.
The covariates were three SES indicators – education, occupation, and income. O.
