Centenarians are people who live to 100 years of age or more.
This group of people happens to be the fastest growing demographic in the developed world. In the United States, for example, the centenarian population is doubling every decade.
Scientists are actively studying this segment of the population with the hope of gaining insights into what drives longevity.
The genetics of centenarians is certainly a factor, and researchers hope to learn more about the so called longevity genes that may provide the basis for such long lives.
At the same time, though, scientists acknowledge that genetics may play a relatively small role. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and a low stress environment are likely the dominant factors in longevity.
Sources: Reuters and The Christian Science Monitor
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