How Long Can Humans Live? Insights from Dr. Jay Olshansky

In this episode of Longevity by Design, Dr. Gil Blander sits down with Dr. Jay Olshansky, a leading professor at the University of Illinois Chicago and a renowned expert in aging and biodemography. Together, they delve into the science of longevity, exploring how public health advancements in the 20th century revolutionized life expectancy and what lies ahead in the quest to extend both lifespan and healthspan.

Dr. Olshansky unpacks the biological limits of human longevity, shedding light on why life expectancy gains are slowing despite medical advancements. He explains the interplay between genetics, lifestyle choices, and aging, emphasizing how societal factors like inequality and access to healthcare impact longevity outcomes. Key concepts like "life table entropy" reveal why breakthroughs in aging science are essential to push beyond the current boundaries.

Tune in to gain actionable insights on diet, exercise, and monitoring health—all crucial for maximizing healthspan, regardless of your genetic blueprint.

Guest-at-a-Glance

💡Name: S. Jay Olshansky, Ph.D.

💡What he does: Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health

💡Company:  University of Illinois Chicago

💡Noteworthy: Expert in aging, biodemography, and the biological limits of longevity.

💡Where to find them: LinkedIn

Episode highlights:

• Introduction: 00:00:00
• Dr. Olshansky book: 00:05:40
• What was the lifespan 100 years ago and what is it today?
  : 00:08:00
• Average vs longer lifespan: 00:19:00
• Death rate at extreme old ages: 00:22:00
• What can break the lifespan ceiling?: 00:26:27
• What are the chances of someone living up to 120 years old?: 00:28:00
• Disparities in Longevity: The Social Determinants of Health: 00:32:00
• GLP-1 as a longevity drug: 00:37:00
• Why women live longer than men: 00:41:00
• How does becoming a U.S. president impact lifespan and healthspan?: 00:46:00
• How long can our listeners aim to live?: 00:50:00
• What are the key milestones in longevity discoveries over the past few decades?: 00:55:00
• What is your top tip for a health span and longevity: 01:15:33

For science-backed ways to live a healthier longer life, download InsideTracker's Top 5 biomarkers for longevity eBook at insidetracker.com/podcast