Saturday, April 4, 2009

Intelligent people live longer?

Having a lower IQ is reported to be strongly associated with a higher risk of death from accidents, coronary heart disease and suicide.

According to a Wellcome Trust study conducted in the MRC Social and Public Health Sciences Unit in Glasgow, cognitive ability determines an individual's risk of death.

Individuals who score higher on IQ tests are believed to exhibit healthier behaviors, smoke or drink less, adopt a healthier diet and exercise more; they therefore are less likely to die.

Preschool education programs and better nourishment were linked to higher IQ scores.

Education was considered as the sole factor influencing the relationship between IQ and death.

Scientists concluded that any attempts to improve educational opportunities may also have health benefits, leading to an increased lifespan.


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