Leukocyte Telomere Length and Mortality in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Researchers studied 7,827 U.S. adults aged 20 and older. They measured telomeres, protective ends of chromosomes, in white blood cells. They then checked death records over the following years. People with shorter telomeres were more likely to die during the study period. This link weakened after considering age, smoking, health, and other differences between people.

What this means for you: This does not show that short telomeres cause earlier death or that lengthening them would extend life. It is not a good reason to buy a telomere test or supplement.