So far, centenarians have shattered myths and have raised more questions about extreme old age. So far, genes that extend life have been identified only among insects. When the right human genes are discovered, researchers insist, the goal will not be to create an elixir to prevent aging. The point will be to help everyone live healthier lives by developing treatments for the diseases that kill people well before they reach 100. There are discoveries researchers haven't explained.
Centenarian women outnumber men, but are sicker and more frail.
Women who have a child after 40 are five times as likely to reach the century mark than other women. Centenarians are all races. Some farm, others surf the Internet. A comfortable, wealthy, pampered life doesn't necessarily guarantee long life. Children of slaves have lived to 100, as have Jewish survivors of concentration camps.