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The average American says they'd like to live to be 91, according to a Pew Research Center survey. But when folks under age 65 were asked what they think life will be like in their 70s and beyond, 67% said they're worried about life in their later years. Wouldn't it be nice if those folks knew just what it takes to not only live longer -- but live happier?

A study that tracked 2,690 Finnish men in their 40s for 50 years shows how you can do that. When you're around 42, if you have five positive markers of cardiovascular health -- you don't smoke and you have a healthy BMI, blood pressure, LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels -- you live longer and younger! More than 40% of study participants who had positive values for all five factors when in their 40s lived to age 90. Only 4% of guys who rated poorly on those factors lived that long.

On top of that, in 2007, when the surviving research participants averaged age 79, researchers found that only 2% of guys who rated positive on those five factors were frail -- and the vast majority reported they were happy and psychologically, not just physically, healthy.

The good news: Your weight, smoking, cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose can all be assessed and then improved through lifestyle and medication, so you'll live longer, younger, and happier. Get a check-up and take next steps. Need help (whatever your age)? Tune into the AI coaching program at 4YOUngevity.com.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at drmikerealage@gmail.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.