Editorial--'Current aging science': an important platform for reporting advances in aging-related research.

摘要

One of the major achievements of the 20th century is the significant gain of years in life expectancy in developed and developing countries. For example, lifespan at birth in the United States increased by 55% for men and by 56% for women from 1901 -2000, while lifespan at age 65 increased by 40% for men and 58% for women over the same period [1]. There is a shift of peoples' views on aging, which no longer necessarily implies physical decline and illness-in fact, the rate of disability among older people has declined significantly. An unanswered key question is whether increases in life expectancy occur with a concurrent postponement of functional limitations and disability [2]. Although research suggests that aging processes are modifiable and that people are living longer without severe disability, further scientific, technological and medical developments are needed to meet the challenges of aging populations [2].