# Long-Lived Genes May Give Grandkids a Healthier Start in Life

*Developmental origins of exceptional health and survival: a four-generation family cohort study.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article
- **Journal**: Nature communications
- **Sample Size**: 5,637 grandchildren and 14,908 great-grandchildren from Danish long-lived families
- **Authors**: Keys MT, Netra S, Pedersen DA, Larsen PS, Kulminski A, Feitosa MF, Wojczynski M, Province M, Christensen K
- **Published**: 2026-05-09
- **Topics**: longevity genetics, family history, early life
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-72433-5
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42106318/

## Summary

Grandchildren of Danish families known for exceptional longevity had about half the risk of dying in infancy compared to the general population. They also showed better health markers at birth. But by the great-grandchildren generation, this advantage faded considerably, hinting that the protective effect dilutes over time.

## Practical Takeaway

This study suggests family longevity history may offer health advantages that start in infancy, not just old age.

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