Education has been proven to be beneficial for health

Education not only helps to build a successful career and earn more, but also is the key to a healthy life, said the head of the study, Samelin Grimsgaard.

The large-scale study, called "Tromseundersokelsen", began in 1974: for 50 years, thousands of Norwegians have been regularly undergoing medical examinations as part of this experiment, passing tests and providing scientists with information about their health and lifestyle. An analysis of the latest results, obtained in 2007 and 2016, shows that the health of people with low education deteriorates faster than that of participants with higher education.

The life expectancy of rich and poor participants also differs. For example, studies have shown that wealthy men in their 40s live almost 14 years longer than their poorer counterparts. For women, the difference is smaller, but still significant, at about 8.4 years.

Blood tests and other medical indicators of more than 8,000 participants confirmed that health inevitably deteriorates with age, but this process is accelerated in people with less education. Among the reasons for this, scientists cited lack of physical activity, unhealthy diet and bad habits. It turned out that people who received only primary school education often lead a sedentary lifestyle, and many of them are overweight and addicted to smoking.

Also, stress related to work and financial situation affects health. People who lack education often face economic hardship, have fewer career prospects, and are often forced to work in conditions that are harmful to their health.

Tromsøundersøkelsen is one of the largest and most well-known long-term health studies in Norway. Over the past 50 years, more than 45,000 people have participated in it. The study covers a wide range of health issues. These include topics such as heart disease, lung disease, cancer, and diabetes, and their prevention, physical activity and nutrition, aging and dementia, and mental health.

The next phase of this medical experiment will be carried out in 2025, in which 37,000 people over the age of 40 can participate. Follow “Zamin” news on “Telegram”