Newswise — This week’s JAMA study “The Status of Baby Boomers’ Health in the United States: The Healthiest Generation?” provides a chilling warning of what is to come. Post-World War II Baby Boomers who make up more than one-quarter of the U.S. population are less healthy than the generation that preceded them. Impending health care costs are poised to be catastrophic both on a personal and societal level.

Why not consider this option: Get to the core of the looming crisis -- add healthy years of life and simultaneously postpone the costly and harmful conditions of old age by slowing the aging process itself.

Aging is the largest risk factor for a panoply of chronic conditions including Alzheimer’s, cancer , heart disease and arthritis. Slowing aging could provide a way to prevent or delay all of them – in one fell swoop. Scientists are in general agreement that the aging process isn’t set in stone; studies in mammals clearly demonstrate that extending human healthspan is within our reach. Few, if any, areas for investing research dollars offer greater potential returns for public health. Aging research has the potential to transform healthcare.

Experts available for comment:On the science:Brian K. Kennedy, PhDPresident and CEO, Buck Institute for Research on Aging

On public policy:Dan PerryPresident & CEOAlliance for Aging ResearchPlease contact:Kris RebillotDirector of CommunicationsBuck Institute for Research on Aging415-209-2080[email protected]