Who among us isn’t seeking the secret to a longer, healthier life? From intermittent fasting to age-fighting supplements, health fads rise and fall. What if the answer to living more than a decade longer didn't depend on a magic bullet product, but the reduction of five major lifestyle threats? A new and pioneering global study, published in The New England Journal of Medicine and unveiled at the 2025 American College of Cardiology Scientific Session, found just that.

Led by German scientists and with more than two million participants in 39 nations, the long-term study followed people for almost half a century to find out how health at middle age, particularly at 50, determines how long people live and what they suffer from. Five key cardiovascular disease risk factors were the focus: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, diabetes, and smoking. Combined, these risk factors cut life expectancy in half.

“Our central question was how many additional years of life are possible if these factors are absent or modified in middle age,” said Dr. Christina Magnussen, deputy director of cardiology at the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf. Over 10 years of life can be added or lost depending on how these risk factors are managed around age 50.

How Five Risk Factors Add To Your Lifespan

The results were stark. People who made it to age 50 with none of the five risk factors had a much reduced lifetime risk for cardiovascular disease, 13% among women and 21% among men. However, for individuals with all five risk factors, the risk leapt to 24% in women and 38% in men. But even more terrifying, cardiovascular events took place 13 years before in women and 11 years before in men when all five risks were in place.

In mortality, the disparity was even more dramatic. Women with no risk factors had a 53% chance of dying by age 90. That rose to 88% for women with all five factors. Mortality in men went up from 68% to a whopping 94%. The net deficit? A loss of around 14.5 years of life for women and 12 years for men.

One of the most inspiring lessons from the study is that it's never too late to make a positive change. Even at about age 50, deliberate lifestyle changes can extend life significantly.

For example, managing high blood pressure between the ages of 55 and 60 postponed heart disease by a mean of 2.4 years among women and 1.2 years among men. Stopping smoking at that age gained women an extra 2.1 years of life and men an extra 2.4. When all five risk factors were changed, people gained five years of life — a health dividend much larger than most medical interventions.

Dr. Holger Thiele, president of the German Society of Cardiology, thinks that this study needs to be taken as an individual call to action. "The study indicates that even at approximately age 50, people can significantly alter their lifestyle or prevention measures to quite substantially affect their life expectancy," he said.

The five modifiable risk factors—obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, smoking, and diabetes—combined are responsible for half of the world's burden of cardiovascular disease. By addressing these habits early, the possibility of a longer, healthier life becomes not only possible but likely.

Why Prevention Is the New Prescription?

This study upholds a paradigm shift in contemporary medicine: prevention is not merely superior to cure—it's stronger. In a treatment-driven healthcare system, such findings are a powerful reminder that the most impactful interventions are frequently at our disposal.

Disease prevention through healthy weight, smoking cessation, regular exercise, blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring, and blood sugar control are not cool, but they are evidence-based interventions with life-changing results.

5 Things to Do To Live Longer and Healthier

The science is certain, but changing takes work. Here's where to begin:

Get screened early: Knowing your numbers for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose by age 40 can help you get ahead of risk.

Quit smoking: Quit smoking through cessation programs or nicotine replacement products. Health rewards begin immediately.

Eat for your heart: Choose a Mediterranean-style diet with lots of vegetables, healthy fats, and lean protein to prevent cholesterol and weight gain.

Walk regularly: Even a 30-minute brisk walk every day can lower several risk factors.

Take care of your mental health: Stress and sleep disturbances can exacerbate cardiovascular risk factors. Get plenty of rest, practice mindfulness, and seek therapy when necessary.

This groundbreaking study highlights a fundamental truth, how we live during our 40s and 50s can decide the duration and quality of our golden years. Steer clear of or turn around just five prevalent health threats and you can add more than a decade to your life. That's a compelling reason to take your health seriously — not later, but now.

No pill or cool hack can provide the same amount of benefit. The science is straightforward, the effect is significant, and the moment to act is now because the true fountain of youth may actually lie in the day-to-day choices you make or refrain from making.

Multivitamins are essentially dietary supplements containing a combination of various vitamins and minerals, often used to bridge nutritional gaps in the diet, treat deficiencies caused by poor nutrition or illness and support overall health.

Designed to provide a broad range of nutrients in one daily dose, they are available in tablets, capsules, gummies or liquids and are widely recommended to adults of all ages and genders.

But which vitamins do women need and when should you be taking them?

Dr Yashica Gudesar, Director & Unit Head of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Dwarka exclusively tells Healthandme: "A woman’s nutritional needs change at different stages of life, from adolescence to reproductive years, pregnancy, and menopause. While food should always be the primary source of nutrients, certain vitamins may be required as women age or depending on lifestyle, diet, and health conditions."

"There’s honestly no universal vitamin checklist that works for every woman. The needs change with age, lifestyle, stress, whether one is planning a pregnancy, and of course, what the blood reports actually show," Bhakti Samant, Chief Dietician, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital further told this publication.

Here are the supplements you need to stock your medicine cabinet with:

1. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient essential for strong bones, immune function, and calcium absorption, often synthesized when skin is exposed to sunlight or obtained via food and supplements.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency include bone pain, muscle weakness, and depression. Deficiencies are common due to low sun exposure or poor diet, leading to rickets in children and osteomalacia or osteoporosis in adults.

However, this can be avoided by consuming a combination of calcium and Vitamin D supplements. Dr Ginni Kalra, Head Dietician, Aakash Healthcare explained to Healthandme: "One of the frequently deficient nutrients in women is vitamin D. It is very important in calcium absorption, bone density, immune homeostasis and mood balance. In most adult women, the amount needed is 600-800 IU (15-20 mcg) per day although deficient women can take 1000-2000 IU per day under the supervision.

"Calcium is necessary in bone density especially in women post-menopause who experience rapid bone loss owing to the diminishing estrogen. Adult women should take 1,000 mg per day that rises to 1200 mg past 50 years. Calcium supplements are most ideal in separated doses of 500-600 mg each time and preferably following meals. When combined with vitamin D, absorption will enhance much better."

"Calcium becomes especially important after the age of 30, and even more after menopause. It can be taken after meals, often divided into two doses for better absorption," Dr Gudesar added.

Moreover, Samant advised: "Vitamin D is best taken with a meal that has some fat. Calcium (around 1000–1200 mg daily) is better split into two doses and should not be taken with iron."

2. Iron

A vital mineral, iron plays a very crucial role in human functioning by helping create hemoglobin to transport oxygen throughout the body, essential for energy and muscle function. Low iron levels can result in decreased oxygen transport and leading to symptoms like extreme fatigue, weakness, pale skin, cold hands/feet and shortness of breath.

While an iron deficiency is usually caused by poor diet, blood loss due to menstrual periods, ulcers, cancer, or regular use of pain relievers like aspirin or malabsorption issues, it can be remedied through supplements.

Dr Kalra explains: "Iron is also essential especially in menstruating women because they lose blood monthly. It may result in an iron deficiency which causes fatigue, loss of hair, brittle nails, and poor concentration. The acceptable amount of iron that is recommended to be taken by women aged 19 to 50 is approximately 18 mg, but this reduces to 8 mg after menopause.

"Iron supplements are better absorbed on an empty stomach or when taken with vitamin C and not when they are taken with calcium, tea or coffee as they have been found to interfere with absorption. The intake in the morning is usually desirable, but in case of gastrointestinal discomfort, it should be avoided."

3. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential for the body because it serves as a powerful antioxidant, supports the immune system, and is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, which is vital for wound healing and the maintenance of healthy skin, bones, and blood vessels.

It also enhances the absorption of iron from plant-based foods and protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart conditions.

While, foods such as oranges, lemons, red and green peppers, kiwifruit, broccoli, strawberries, and Brussels sprouts can provide help maintain Vitamin C levels, supplements can help boost absorption and maximize benefits.

Dr Kalra notes: "Vitamin C helps to maintain the immunity, collagen synthesis, and iron uptake. It should be taken in 75 mg daily by adult women. It is soluble in water and can be consumed together with breakfast."

Additionally, she also recommends intaking: "Vitamin E and vitamin A also help the skin, vision, and antioxidant defense, but overconsumption is not advisable because it may be toxic."

4. Omega 3

Omega-3 fatty acids are polyunsaturated fats known for their crucial role in brain function and overall mental health. Fish oil is particularly rich in EPA and DHA, which are vital components of cell membranes and have strong anti-inflammatory effects in the body.

These omega-3s play a critical role in human development, and they are primarily found in fatty fish and fish oil. Some popular sources of Omega-3 include:

• Salmon
• Cod Liver Oil
• Algae Oil
• Oysters
• Nuts and seeds, such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts
• Plant oils, such as flaxseed oil, soybean oil, and canola oil
• Fortified foods, such as eggs, yogurt, juices, milk, etc.

But as many people do not consume enough fish, supplementation is often recommended to ensure adequate intake of these essential fatty acids.

Dr Kalra suggests: "Though not vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids are worth mentioning because of the cardiovascular, hormonal, and anti-inflammatory effects. About 250–500 mg of combined EPA and DHA a day may be helpful and is most often administered after meals."

5. Vitamin B12

Symptoms of a Vitamin B12 deficiency often appear slowly. You may not notice them at first, or may blame them on stress, lack of sleep or a busy schedule. However, if the deficiency continues for long, it could lead to serious health problems.

Dr Gudesar recommends: "Vitamin B12 supports nerve health and energy levels. Vegetarian women are more prone to deficiency. It is typically taken in the morning."

"Vitamin B12 is needed to promote nerve well-being, red blood cell building, and energy conversion. The chances of deficiency are increased in vegetarian women because B12 is mostly found in foods of animal origin. The suggested daily dose is 2.4 mcg, but the dosage can be raised in deficiency. It is preferable in the morning as it could increase alertness," Dr Kalra explained.

However, Dr Kalra also advises: "There should be individualization of supplement timing and dosage. Decisions should be based on routine blood tests, dietary assessment, age, lifestyle, and existing medical conditions.

"Excessive supplementation is detrimental, in particular, fat-soluble vitamins. The only safe and effective approach is nutritional adequacy by means of whole foods, and supplements are the supportive therapy only in cases where deficiencies are observed."

The digital revolution has transformed childhood. From online classes to gaming and entertainment, headphones and earphones have become constant companions for children. While technology has brought convenience and learning opportunities, it has also introduced a silent threat, damage to children’s hearing.

In my clinical practice as an ENT surgeon, I am witnessing an alarming increase in young patients presenting with symptoms such as ear discomfort, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), and reduced hearing ability. These issues, once uncommon in children, are now becoming increasingly frequent due to excessive and unsafe use of personal audio devices.

Understanding the Risk

What makes the situation more concerning is that children often do not recognize the early warning signs. By the time symptoms become noticeable, significant damage may have already occurred.

The 60/60 Rule: A Simple Preventive Measure

• Listen at no more than 60% of the maximum volume

• Limit usage to 60 minutes at a time, followed by a break

This simple guideline can significantly reduce the risk of hearing damage and should be strictly followed by children and adolescents.

Warning Signs Parents Must Watch For

• Frequently increasing the volume of devices

• Complaints of ringing, buzzing, or ear pain

• Difficulty in hearing conversations

• Speaking unusually loudly

If any of these symptoms are noticed, it is important to consult an ENT specialist promptly.

Promoting Safe Listening Habits

1. Limit Earphone Use: Encourage children to use speakers whenever possible instead of earphones.

2. Choose Safer Devices: Over-the-ear headphones are generally safer than in-ear earbuds as they reduce direct sound impact.

3. Ensure Quiet Environments: Avoid using headphones in noisy surroundings, as children tend to increase volume to compensate.

4. Take Regular Breaks: Continuous listening should be avoided. Short breaks help the ears recover.

5. Avoid Night-time Use: Using headphones before sleep can harm both hearing and sleep quality.

A Shared Responsibility

Routine hearing check-ups should also be encouraged, especially for children who frequently use headphones for study or entertainment.

The digital age is here to stay, and technology will continue to play a central role in children’s lives. However, safeguarding their health must remain a priority. Hearing is a precious sense that, once lost, cannot be restored.

By adopting simple precautions, spreading awareness, and encouraging responsible use of technology, we can ensure that our children enjoy the benefits of the digital world, without compromising their hearing health.

From virtual meetings and online calls to webinars, gaming, workouts, and long commutes, headphones and earphones have become nearly indispensable -- almost an extension of the human body. But the continuous exposure to sounds for long periods may be adversely affecting your hearing health, warned health experts on World Hearing Day.

World Hearing Day is observed on March 3 each year to raise awareness on how to prevent deafness and hearing loss and promote ear and hearing care across the world.

Hearing loss in an adult can impact day-to-day conversations, work-related activities, and social engagements, to name a few. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one billion young adults are at risk of permanent, avoidable hearing loss due to unsafe listening practices.

“The repeated exposure to sound will directly impact the hairlike cells in the inner ear as they are damaged and run the risk of death, therefore resulting in Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). This type of damage occurs and can be permanent, unlike the temporary ear fatigue that we all are likely to experience,” Dr. (Prof.) Anand Gupta, Regional Director & Head - ENT, Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Faridabad, told HealthandMe.

According to the US National Institutes of Health, NIHL can be immediate or take a long time to be noticeable. It can affect one ear or both ears.

Dr. Gupta noted that wearing headphones for long hours daily can make individuals more vulnerable to being harmed by NIHL.

Importantly, headphones with noise-cancellation abilities are at an even greater risk of causing NIHL, should the user have their volume set above 60 percent, Dr. Gupta said.

“Prolonged exposure to sound at any volume greater than 60 per cent creates further demands on the auditory system than normal, which can exaggerate symptoms associated with NIHL,” he added.

The most commonly experienced symptoms of NIHL include

• occasional headaches,
• ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or "buzzing" sounds,
• muffled hearing,
• difficulty understanding conversations,
• a feeling of fullness in the ears.

Annual Hearing Checkups

Individuals who routinely listen to headphones should also have their hearing checked regularly. Taking simple precautions at this time could help prevent permanent hearing loss in the future.

The experts advised detecting hearing loss early.

“If you are an adult and have concerns about your ability to hear, consult with your otolaryngologist as soon as possible," Dr. Sumit Mrig, Director & Unit Head, ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) & Cochlear Implant, Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, told HealthandMe.

Depending upon how severely impaired your hearing is, the appropriate interventions may include hearing aids or other means that can dramatically improve your ability to communicate as well as improve your overall life quality,” Dr. Mrig added.

Other ways to prevent hearing damage include

• taking listening breaks every 10-15 minutes;
• lowering background noise (i.e., not turning the headphones up soundwise);
• and/or making use of quality, fitted headphones.

"Extended headphones, when used at high volumes, can strain the delicate structures of the inner ear, potentially leading to noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and ear fatigue as well. Working professionals should also follow the 60- 60 rule, not more than 60 percent volume for 60 minutes as a stretch, and take regular listening breaks as well," Dr. Ashwath Kasliwal, Senior Consultant - ENT, Head and Neck, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Jaipur, told HealthandMe.