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Journalism of Courage
Prof Deepak Saini, convenor of the newly launched ‘Longevity India Initiative’ likens the human body to a vehicle in some ways. “Just as slamming a car door can weaken its hinges over time, certain lifestyle choices can affect how our bodies age and deteriorate,” Dr Saini told The Indian Express.
The focus is to concentrate on the unique aspects of the Indian population to find ways to keep individuals healthy and active as they age. Hence, this clinical study will assess the person’s immunity, biological and functional changes as well as identify the organ-specific signatures of aging in the Indian population.
Persons with chronic disorders, surgical history,and those who have had a recent episode of infection will not be included in the study. In the latter part, there will be comparative data with groups of individuals who have suffered from different kind of disorders. “The main aim of our research is to pinpoint the biological markers that signal healthy ageing, working to counteract the decline that often comes with getting older,” Dr Saini said.
“We can then predict which organ in the body is the weakest link,” Dr Saini adds as he emphasises that the large scale study has been planned to extend healthy life expectancy and promote longevity. “The aim is to study ageing through the lens of science and technology and discovering interventions that can prevent age related diseases,” he said.
Researchers from multiple IISc departments, clinicians, industry, philanthropists and civil society will be involved in the study. The initiative has received initial funding support from Prashanth Prakash, founding partner, Accel India and according to researchers this is an ambitious project.
