The more you fear aging, the faster your body may age
Science Daily
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Worrying about aging, particularly concerns about declining health, may accelerate biological aging at the cellular level, according to a study by NYU School of Global Public Health. Researchers analyzed data from over 700 women participating in the Midlife in the United States (MIDUS) study and found that those who reported higher levels of anxiety about aging showed signs of faster epigenetic aging. This was measured using two established epigenetic clocks: DunedinPACE, which assesses biological aging speed, and GrimAge2, which estimates accumulated biological damage.
The strongest link to accelerated aging was observed among women who worried about future health problems, while concerns about appearance or fertility had no significant impact on epigenetic aging. This suggests that health-related anxieties may have a more persistent effect over time compared to worries about beauty or reproduction. The study highlights the close connection between mental and physical health, emphasizing that psychological stress can influence biological processes.
Women may be particularly vulnerable to aging anxiety due to societal pressures around youth and appearance, as well as concerns about fertility and caregiving for elderly family members. These factors can heighten stress during midlife, potentially contributing to faster cellular aging. The findings underscore the importance of addressing aging-related anxieties as a modifiable factor in aging biology.
While the study identifies a correlation between aging anxiety and epigenetic aging, it does not establish causation. Other factors, such as coping behaviors like smoking or alcohol use, may partially explain the link. When researchers adjusted for these behaviors, the association weakened but remained significant. Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of aging anxiety on biological aging and to develop interventions to support individuals experiencing these fears.
This study adds to our understanding of how psychological factors can shape physical health outcomes. By identifying aging anxiety as a measurable and modifiable determinant of aging biology, researchers open new avenues for addressing age-related health concerns through mental health support and stress management strategies. For anyone interested in the intersection of psychology and health, this research highlights the profound impact of mindset on cellular aging—a reminder that worrying about aging may not only affect our minds but also our bodies at a fundamental level.
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Originally published on Science Daily on 2/26/2026