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New Study: Humans Could Live Up to 156 Years
22 Jul
Summary
- New research suggests human lifespan may extend to 156 years.
- Somatic mutations in DNA may limit current human lifespans.
- Healthy lifestyle choices can add up to 10 years to life expectancy.
A recent study published in npj Aging in July 2026 suggests that the maximum human lifespan could be as long as 156 years, a significant increase from the previously theorized limit of 122 years. This research, conducted by scientists in Russia, focuses on somatic mutations, which are changes in the body's cells that accumulate over time and contribute to aging.
These somatic mutations are thought to be a primary mechanism limiting how long humans can live. While organs like the liver can regenerate cells, vital organs such as the brain and heart, which contain non-regenerating tissue, are particularly affected by this cellular damage. This aligns with common causes of death like heart disease and dementia.
The Russian researchers developed a model that, by removing the effects of somatic mutations, indicated a potential lifespan of 156 years. However, they acknowledge other aging processes are also at play. While this study doesn't provide an immediate solution for extending life, established lifestyle choices such as avoiding smoking, managing weight, and obtaining adequate sleep can increase life expectancy by up to 10 years.
