Take Risks, Live Longer [The Orange County Register] Adrenaline junkies, take note: Your thrill-seeking tendencies might very well keep you alive longer than your more conservative peers. Using genetic information from more than 3,300 individuals, researchers have concluded that a genetic variant associated with extroversion and high-risk behavior is also linked to a longer lifespan. Those with the genetic variant, known as DRD4 7R, were significantly more likely to live into their 90s. Unfortunately, the variant is something of a double-edged sword: It seems to prime us for a longer life, but is also tied to an increased risk of ADHD and drug addiction. Researchers suspect, however, that the variant might be beneficial simply because it pushes individuals to be more active—meaning that anyone can benefit from the findings. (Exercise at home with 7 Workouts For Small Spaces.)
Poll: Americans Unsure About Obesity [The Washington Post] Around two-thirds of Americans are either overweight or obese, yet few of us know just how damaging excess weight can really be. That's according to a new, national poll, which concluded that most Americans are unaware that extra weight can increase the risk of certain cancers, arthritis, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea, among other health woes. The poll also found that around half of Americans consider their weight to be "just right," despite statistics that suggest otherwise. Experts suspect that an increased knowledge of obesity's toll might spur us to eat better and be more active. (Weight loss often requires medical support. But is your doctor Discriminating Because Of Your Weight?)
