Brazil's Oldest Citizens May Hold Longevity Clues

Scientists in Brazil are studying the oldest people in the country to find out why some live much longer than others.

Most people live to be around 70, but a few live to be 100 or even older.

These very old people, called supercentenarians, are special because they might hold the secrets to a long life.

Brazil is a great place to study this because the people there come from many different backgrounds, like Indigenous, European, African, and other parts of the world.

The scientists are looking at more than 160 people who are 100 years or older, including 20 who are over 110.

Some of these people are still very sharp and independent, even at their age.

The scientists think that the diversity in Brazil might help them find special genes that help people live longer.

Many of these long-lived people come from places where there isn't great healthcare, so the scientists think that their bodies might have strong natural protection.

Some of these supercentenarians even survived Covid-19 before there were vaccines, which shows they have strong immune systems.

The scientists say it's important to study different kinds of people to learn more about aging and how to help everyone live healthier lives.