In depth validation of the age of Sardinian centenarians revealed an exceptional longevity and unexpected gender equality that resulted in the identification of the Sardinian Longevity Blue Zone in 2000. Two main hypotheses have been put forward to explain such exceptional longevity : (i) the population remained isolated for centuries, which contributed to the stabilization of its gene pool and (ii) the respective preservation of sociocultural and anthropological features throughout its history. To date none of the studied genetic markers have been shown to diverge significantly from that of the general population and the relative importance of genetic factors in Sardinian longevity still remains unknown. Among the non-genetic factors that might be important to account for the exceptional longevity recorded in central Sardinia and the low female/male ratio among the oldest people, the role of physical activity and nutrition has been the subject of numerous researches. In addition to any hereditary factor, growing interest has emerged in the role of behavioural factors and the sociocultural context in successful aging of the population. Nevertheless, it will be necessary to await the results of further research to better understand the role of gene–environment interactions as well as epigenetics.
The reshaping of the Sardinian Blue Zone in 2023
Revisione dell’estensione della Zona Blu in Sardegna (2023)
Longevity Blue Zones 