A recent news report states that an Avestagenome project is probing the secrets of the Parsi gene to find out why Parsis live longer and don’t get certain cancers. While the traditional injunction on the use of tobacco may explain the elimination of some cancers, apart from the genetic makeup responsible for longevity of the community, the role of modern medicine and advances in surgical technologies cannot be ignored.
My grandparents passed away before reaching the age of 53, my parents lived up to 80 and my generation is in their 90s. Social status, standards of living and general awareness also contribute to prolonging the lifespan.
Dr VISPY M. MEHER HOMJI
vispymeherhomji@gmail.com
...