What is the Origin of Healthspan Compression Science?

This term is an evolution of the "compression of morbidity" theory first proposed in the 1980s, updated to reflect the modern molecular and cellular focus of longevity research. The inclusion of "science" emphasizes the systematic, evidence-based approach to manipulating biological pathways to achieve this outcome. It is a guiding principle in preventative medicine and gerontology.

What is the Mechanism of Healthspan Compression Science?

The scientific mechanism involves aggressively mitigating the underlying biological hallmarks of aging, such as cellular senescence, telomere attrition, and epigenetic dysregulation, throughout the lifespan. By maintaining high cellular and systemic integrity, the onset of age-related chronic diseases is delayed significantly. This delay results in a state where multiple systems fail nearly simultaneously at a very advanced age, effectively achieving the compression of morbidity and maximizing the healthy years.

Healthspan Compression Science ∞ Area

Healthspan Compression Science

Meaning

Healthspan compression science is the specialized field dedicated to developing and implementing strategies that aim to minimize the duration of morbidity and functional decline at the end of life, thereby “compressing” the period of illness into the shortest possible timeframe. The primary goal is to ensure that the healthspan, the period of life spent in good health, closely aligns with the maximum lifespan. This represents a clinical focus on vitality maintenance until a rapid, final decline.