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Pennington Researching Keys to Living a Long Life

Posted on: Monday, 20 March 2006, 18:00 CST

Pennington researching keys to living a long life

If you have made it to age 89, scientists at Pennington Biomedical Research Center want to know how.

According to Eric Ravussin, one of the designers of the study called "Healthy Aging," only three out of 100 people born in 1916 are still living today.

Researchers are trying to determine what it takes for near centenarians to make it that far in life: Do they have better genes? Better lifestyle? Better nutrition? The study will look at all three.

Center researchers are inviting residents age 89 or older and living within a 40-mile radius of Baton Rouge to participate in a study that will require two sessions with each participant. The first is a visit by researchers to the participant's home, the next is a trip by the participants to the center's clinic off Perkins Road.

During the home visit, a nurse practitioner will fill out a questionnaire concerning the participants' medical history, physical activity and foods.

The nurse practitioner will also measure blood pressure and weight and conduct a blood test.

The center will provide transportation for the clinic visit during which more measurements will be taken. Those who participate will be able to earn up to $350 in compensation for their time and have access to any information recorded for them during the study.

Healthy Aging is a study looking at four areas: genetics, metabolism, physical ability and cognitive ability.

By accurately testing each area, researchers hope to gain insight to the keys to a long and healthy life.

To volunteer for this study, call Betsy Bernhard at (225) 763- 2596 or Tiffany Hall at (225) 763-3044, or e-mail at HallTM@pbrc.edu.

Source: Advocate; Baton Rouge, La.

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