Abstract
The field of anti-aging as a part of clinical medicine is becoming well-established as a science, yet the epidemiologic validation is the next challenge.
We have been conducting “Kenko-jumyo(healthy life expectancy) dock” since 2001 at Takanawa Medical Clinic and the “Ko-karei(anti-aging) dock” since 2006 at Tokai University Tokyo Hospital. Data on 2,500 Japanese individuals has already been accumulated. While this data is invaluable, we need to go beyond cross-sectional studies and perform follow-up studies like the MORGAM cohort and various intervention studies.
The mechanism of aging has been better explained along with the advances in the studies of telomeres and sirtuins; now we know the influences of oxidation/glycation(AGEs), metabolic syndrome, hormones. In order to take this into practice, we need to implement the knowledge and investigate if we can lower disease incidences or mortality and improve QOL among human subjects.
Some of the approaches for anti-aging include lowering total caloric intake, increasing physical activities, and taking supplements. Effects of exercises on aging have been extensively studied. At our clinic, we provide exercise sessions focusing on postures and daily activities. In terms of supplements (mainly vitamins), recent studies are based on the same methodology and criteria as pharmaceuticals, which may underestimate their effects and interindividual differences.
In order to further develop the field of anti-aging medicine—both in terms of academics and practice—, total medical checkup(sogo-kenshin) plays a crucial role, and also collaboration with various fields is essential. The direction for future anti-aging medicine is an extensive network, including medical institutions, universities, and business corporations, that allows comprehensive approach to improve each person's QOL.
