Renting a home can be a source of stress that not only affects your daily life but may also take a toll on your biological age, according to recent research. A study conducted by researchers from the UK and Australia has revealed that the stress of renting can lead to faster biological ageing compared to home ownership. In fact, the impact of renting on biological age was nearly double that of unemployment and 50% greater than the effects of living as a former smoker.
The study, published in The British Medical Journal’s Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, sheds light on the often overlooked connection between housing and health. The researchers found that the inability to consistently make rent and exposure to environmental hazards in rental properties contribute to accelerated biological ageing.
The lead researcher emphasized the significance of the findings, stating that the association between renting and faster biological ageing should be a cause for concern among policymakers. Faster biological ageing is not only linked to poorer health but also an increased risk of chronic illnesses and premature death.
The impact of housing on health is far-reaching. It goes beyond the traditional concept of age and encompasses biological age, which reflects how quickly our cells are ageing. This measure can differ significantly from our chronological age. The research team analyzed data from the U.K. Household Longitudinal Study, including health information and blood samples from nearly 1,500 participants. Biomarkers associated with ageing were assessed using the blood samples.
Interestingly, while renting was found to accelerate biological ageing, there was one exception: individuals whose rent was subsidized by the government did not experience faster biological ageing compared to homeowners who had paid off their homes. This suggests that affordable and secure housing plays a crucial role in mitigating the negative effects on biological ageing.
It is important to note that the study had some limitations. The biological ageing data collected through blood tests only included information from white European individuals and might not necessarily be generalized to different populations. Additionally, housing conditions may impact other aspects of health besides the epigenome (the study of changes in gene expression). Even after moving, prior housing conditions may continue to affect the epigenome.
The researchers highlighted the need for greater support in housing costs and restrictions on increasing housing expenses to protect individuals from falling into arrears and experiencing subsequent health consequences. They also emphasized that housing policy changes can have a positive impact on health, as biological ageing is reversible.
Renting a home can be stressful for various reasons. The study identified several potential stressors associated with renting, including inadequate heating, location issues, overcrowding, social stigma, and the hassle of moving. Moreover, rising rent levels due to inflation have become a concern in recent years.
While this research underscores the potential negative effects of renting on biological ageing, it also highlights the possibility for positive change. By addressing housing affordability and ensuring secure housing for all, policymakers can make significant strides in improving public health.
This groundbreaking study emphasizes the vital role that housing plays in our overall well-being. Renting a home can lead to accelerated biological ageing, which is associated with poorer health outcomes and increased risk of chronic illnesses. However, by implementing effective housing policies and providing support to individuals facing housing challenges, it is possible to reverse these negative effects and improve public health for all.
