A hormone which is more plentiful in wealthier people has been linked to longer life

Researchers from University College London, working on the English Longitudinal Study of Aging, found evidence that biological aging is slower among people with better socio-economic circumstances. It found that the wealthier people were, the higher their levels of DHEAS. DHEAS - or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate - is produced by the brain, adrenal glands and sexual organs and is a guide to life expectancy. The discovery raises the possibility that the hormone could be artificially produced and used to make people live longer. The scientists also found that those with higher levels of it tended to do greater amounts of exercise, lead a more active life with lots of pastimes, and have more friends and family. Production of it is greatest during childhood and the teenage years, before it gradually declines through adult life - by the age of 80 it could be just 10% of the peak level of teenagers. Having more DHEAS in the body is linked to a better memory and ability to cope with mental tasks, particularly in men. The research also found higher levels of a second hormone - growth factor I (IGF-I) - in those who are wealthier.