Longevity

Our physical environment far outweighs genetics in predicting longevity

Advancing Healthier Longevity through the Built Environment

Longevity is not just about living longer; it’s about living healthier and more actively, free from disease and disability.

While genetics and healthcare are important, a large body of research shows that Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), which include the quality of the environments where we spend the majority of our time, have a significant impact on how well we age. Research consistently shows that the spaces where we live and work significantly influence both our physical and mental health, impacting our overall longevity.

Research has shown that environmental factors are collectively 10 times more influential than an individual’s genetic makeup in predicting premature mortality, with air quality, water quality, and living conditions being major contributors. In fact, air pollution is considered the most significant external threat to human life expectancy on the planet.

Given that more than 90% of our time is typically spent indoors—at home, workplaces, schools, public spaces (like shops and restaurants), and in vehicles— our chemical exposures within indoor environments play a crucial role in the totality of our exposome — the totality of human environmental (non-genetic) exposures from conception onward, complementing the genome.

Within the built environment, exposure to physical and chemical factors such as lead in water, pollutants in indoor air, and dust on surfaces are well-documented for their harmful effects on human health. Additionally, factors such as lighting, thermal comfort, and acoustics significantly impact our well-being.

image
icon

Air Quality

  • Exposure to pollutants like VOCs, PM2.5, PM10, carbon monoxide, ozone, and allergens can trigger respiratory issues and increase the risk of asthma, allergies, and airway damage
  • Airborne pathogens, mold spores, and radon contribute to respiratory disease, COPD, and other serious health conditions
  • Long-term exposure to poor air quality is linked to cardiovascular diseases, kidney and liver damage, and central nervous system impairment
  • Air quality issues can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, inflammation, difficulty breathing, elevated blood pressure, and an increased risk of cancer
icon

Water Quality

  • Contaminants like pathogens (bacteria, viruses, parasites), heavy metals (lead, mercury), and PFAS can cause a range of health issues, including gastrointestinal problems, respiratory issues, and cardiovascular dysfunction
  • Long-term exposure to poor water quality can increase the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, kidney function impairment, and reproductive system dysfunction
  • Water contamination can lead to symptoms such as drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, headache, fever, and cognitive impairment
  • Prolonged exposure can also cause musculoskeletal system dysfunction, hearing loss, nervous system dysfunction, and an increased risk of cancer
icon

Light

  • Optimal light intensity, balanced color, and healthy exposure duration support improved circadian rhythm alignment and overall well-being
  • Consistent light frequency and history reduce eye strain and fatigue, enhancing comfort and productivity
  • Proper light exposure can improve mental health and help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  • Maintaining a balanced lighting environment contributes to better sleep patterns and overall physical health
icon

Biophilia

  • Access to nature, outdoor views, and nature-inspired sensory stimuli enhance attention, mood, and productivity
  • Biophilic design reduces acute mental stress, mental anxiety, and fatigue, promoting improved cognitive restoration and stress relief
  • Integrating biophilia into environments fosters better emotional well-being and psychological health
  • Curated light and sound therapy inspired by nature have been proven to improve PTSD, depression, and other mental health conditions

At P3Global, we see a tremendous opportunity to redefine longevity by integrating the spaces where we live and work. Leveraging cutting-edge technology and insights, we’re reshaping how we approach longevity by addressing a critical missing element: the impact of indoor environments on health. We believe that the operation of buildings—combined with data on occupants' habits—creates a powerful opportunity to optimize the built environment exposome, enhancing health and well-being.

Real-time optimization transforms buildings from static structures into dynamic environments that respond to occupant needs and environmental changes, acting as a frontline defense against health risks from poor indoor environmental quality while prioritizing energy and water conservation.

At the intersection of health, sustainability, and design, we are creating a future where the built environment actively promotes a healthy life span. By integrating technology, design and sustainability into everyday spaces, we are advancing preventative health through products and solutions that optimize the environments we live and work in.