Scientists studying Brazil’s oldest living people believe they may be closer to unlocking the mystery of why some humans live far longer than average. While the global average life expectancy hovers around 70 years, a small fraction of people reach 100, and an even rarer group lives beyond 110. These individuals, known as supercentenarians, have long intrigued researchers searching for the biological secrets of extreme longevity.
A new scientific viewpoint published in Genomic Psychiatry sheds light on findings from an ongoing Brazilian longevity study that focuses on both centenarians and supercentenarians. Researchers say Brazil’s uniquely diverse population gives the study a major advantage over similar research conducted in more genetically uniform countries.
Why Brazil Is a Unique Case Study
Brazil’s population has been shaped by Indigenous ancestry, European colonisation, African heritage, and immigration from across the globe. Scientists believe this genetic diversity could reveal longevity-related traits that may not be detectable in populations with less variation.
The study currently includes more than 160 centenarians, among them 20 supercentenarians from different regions of the country. Remarkably, some participants remained mentally sharp, physically independent, and cognitively active well past the age of 100.
In a few exceptional cases, longevity appeared to run in families, including one family with four women aged between 100 and 110, strengthening the case for inherited biological advantages.
Longevity Despite Limited Healthcare
One of the most striking findings is that many of the participants grew up in poorer regions with limited access to healthcare. This suggests that their long lives may be driven more by strong genetic and biological protection than by modern medical interventions alone.
Researchers also noted that several Brazilian supercentenarians survived Covid-19 infections before vaccines were available, pointing to exceptionally resilient immune systems.
Global Implications for Aging Research
Experts say the findings highlight the importance of expanding longevity research beyond Europe and North America. Studying diverse populations like Brazil’s could help scientists better understand how genetics, immunity, and environment interact to slow aging.
Such insights could eventually lead to improved health outcomes, better aging-related treatments, and strategies to extend not just lifespan—but healthspan—for people around the world.