Ciencia Latina Revista Científica Multidisciplinar · May 13, 2026
The Longevity Code: A Multifactorial Approach from Blue Zones and Public Health
By Delgado AL, Moranth RV, Burgos PL et al.
The sustained increase in life expectancy worldwide constitutes one of the main challenges of contemporary public health, shifting the emphasis from merely prolonging life toward ensuring healthy, functional aging with an adequate quality of life. In this context, the so-called Blue Zones have gained considerable scientific relevance, as geographic regions characterized by a high concentration of centenarians who maintain high levels of autonomy, physical well-being, and a low burden of disease. This study analyzes, from a comprehensive public health perspective, the main factors associated with exceptional longevity in five globally recognized Blue Zones: Okinawa, Sardinia, the Nicoya Peninsula, Ikaria, and Loma Linda. The results demonstrate that longevity is a multifactorial phenomenon resulting from the interaction among biological, genetic, environmental, social, and behavioral determinants. Although genetic factors explain between 20% and 30% of the process, modifiable factors related to the environment and lifestyles exert a predominant influence. The most important determinants include dietary patterns based primarily on foods of plant origin, moderate caloric intake, physical activity incorporated naturally into daily routines, the strength of family and community networks, and the existence of a purpose in life that sustains mental and emotional health. These determinants operate synergistically, driving reductions in indicators of morbidity and disease associated with chronicity, to preserve functioning and a better quality of life at older ages. The study also highlights the importance of social determinants of health, such as community cohesion, social participation, emotional stability, and protective environments, as key determinants of longevity. Taken together, the Blue Zones constitute a strategic and replicable model for designing public policies aimed at active, healthy, and sustainable aging, while also offering a solid foundation for designing population-level interventions in different settings.