Lifestyle factors associated with biofunctional age in a cross-sectional study of adults aged 35 and older

Lifestyle factors associated with biofunctional age in a cross-sectional study of adults aged 35 and older. Download PDF Abstract Ageing is a complex process influenced by chronological age, gender, genetics, lifestyle and environment leading to intra- and inter-individual variability in vitality and the trajectory of healthy ageing. This study aimed to identify key lifestyle factors and to develop a Lifestyle Index (LI) for low-threshold, practical assessment of Biological Functional Status (BFS) in routine health evaluations.

A monocentric, cross-sectional, observational study including 630 participants; BFS and LI were derived for a subgroup of 312 participants aged ≥ 35 years, consistent with the age threshold required by the validated BFA model. Data collection comprised demographic, lifestyle and functional health parameters. Statistical analysis identified modifiable lifestyle factors most strongly linked to BFS and BFA forming the basis of the LI.

Five lifestyle factors form the basis of the primary Lifestyle Index (LI): high physical activity (≥ 3 x /week), r = − 0.212), satisfaction with sexual life (r = − 0.156), normal Body Mass Index (18.5–22 kg/m 2, r = − 0.120), very good sleep (r = − 0.099) and never /past smoking (r = 0.128). The constructed LI (0- 10 points) correlated with lower BFA (r = − 0.233; p < 0.001), indicating a healthier lifestyle profile. Mean LI score was 5.7 points (SD = 1.7; median = 5.5).

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