Aging may happen in significant bursts, not steadily

Scientists are exploring how people age to understand if it happens steadily or in bursts. Recent studies suggest that aging may not be a smooth process, with significant changes occurring at certain points in life. One study from Stanford University followed blood samples from 108 adults aged 25 to 75. Researchers found that many people age more quickly around age 44 and again at 60. Changes in metabolism and immune function were linked to these points. This helps explain why some people struggle with alcohol and illness as they grow older. Additionally, research on mice suggested that aging has distinct stages, with chemical changes to DNA occurring at different life stages. Other studies of over 4,000 people show that protein levels associated with aging rise significantly in the fourth, seventh, and eighth decades of life. Experts debate whether aging happens in bursts or longer phases. One researcher found that aging rates are steep during childhood and then become steady after 20. Another noted that different organs might age at different rates. Understanding these changes could help people manage their health better. Researchers want to know how various factors contribute to aging. They plan to conduct long-term studies to track individuals over time, which could reveal more about aging processes. As of now, researchers are just beginning to understand how biological changes relate to aging. Their goal is to help people enjoy a longer, healthier life by delaying the onset of age-related decline.