In the mountainous villages on the Italian island of Sardinia, there are 21 centenarians in a population of 10,000. Only about four in 10,000 Americans reach the 100-year mark. In addition, on Sardinia men live longer than any other place on earth. Clearly, the Sardinians could teach the world a thing or two about what it takes to live a long and healthy life.

A decade ago, scientists theorized that genes played a role in their extraordinary longevity. An enclave of 14 villages is home to one of the world's most genetically homogenous populations. Since then, the notion of a genetic advantage has been called into question. According to Dr. Pes, an Italian physician and medical researcher, several studies have shown that the genetic markers of the centenarians, including those associated with cardiovascular mortality, cancer and inflammation, do not diverge significantly from those of the general population.

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Source: http://www.italiantribune.com/