Is your life a party? Study reveals how much partying harms your health
The research took over six decades
Scientists at Laurea University of Applied Sciences in Finland followed 371 people born in 1959 until they were in their 60s, looking at how excessive drinking, smoking and lack of exercise affected their health. The group underwent medical examinations at ages 27, 36, 42, 50 and 61, and received full medical examinations from the age of 42. Although smoking and excessive drinking had few consequences in their twenties, the effects of a boisterous lifestyle began to show in their thirties.
The consequences will be felt in body and soul
These unhealthy habits have led to higher rates of depression, cancer, heart and lung disease and premature death. These results persisted even when people aged 40+, 50+ and 60+ were followed. The researchers said the study shows the importance of limiting alcohol consumption and quitting smoking before middle age to prevent decades of health problems.
In the Annals of Medicine, study author Dr. Tiia Kekalainen wrote: "Diseases such as heart disease and cancer cause nearly three-quarters of deaths worldwide. However, by following a healthy lifestyle, a person can reduce the risk of these diseases and the likelihood of premature death."
It's never too late to change
"Our findings highlight the importance of addressing risky health habits such as smoking, excessive drinking and physical inactivity early to prevent their long-term negative impact, which accumulates over the years and leads to poor mental and physical health later in life," she said.
"But it's never too late to change your habits to healthier ones. Adopting a healthier lifestyle in mid-life has a positive impact even in old age," Kekalainen assured.
"Gwyneth Paltrow-style 'boredom'? One drink a week
Gwyneth Paltrow (52) is among the celebrities who have spoken openly about limiting alcohol and smoking in later life.
The star of Shakespeare in Love, who is also known for her lifestyle brand Goop, admitted in 2021 that she drank "seven nights a week" during the pandemic, but later quit the habit because it was "not healthy".
A year later, Paltrow wrote in her Goop newsletter about her radically altered alcohol consumption, "I have one drink a week - whiskey or a small glass of red wine. Boring!"
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