Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don't Have To
Lifespan: Why We Age – and Why We Don't Have To is authored by David A. Sinclair.
Synopsis
The book Lifespan is divided into three sections:
- "Part I: What We Know (The Past)" consisting of 3 chapters
- "Part II: What We're Learning (The Present)" containing 4 chapters
- "Part III: Where We're Going (The Future)" with 2 chapters
Additionally, it features an introduction and a concluding chapter.
The authors examine fundamental aging processes including genomic instability caused by DNA damage, changes in epigenetics, deterioration of proteostasis, depletion of stem cells, and the generation of inflammatory molecules. They propose that intervening in these aging markers can decelerate the aging process, and that simultaneously targeting all may potentially stop aging altogether.
Critical reception
Upon release in September 2019, Lifespan entered the The New York Times hardcover nonfiction bestseller list at position #11.
Critical responses were varied. Outside suggested the book for readers interested in prolonging their healthy years. Conversely, Boston Magazine described Sinclair as "one of science's most controversial figures," highlighting skepticism among some experts regarding his longevity assertions. Biology professor Steven N. Austad commented that Sinclair has made "excessive claims." In the journal Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, Charles Brenner criticized the work for disseminating misleading information about longevity genes and the reversal of aging in mice.
During a 2019 interview, Sinclair addressed concerns about overpopulation linked to extended lifespans, noting that population growth worldwide is either stabilizing or declining, particularly in developed nations, as healthier individuals tend to have fewer offspring.