IQ and Seat Belts?Interesting study on Yahoo! today:
Smarter Kids May Live LongerThe study, which followed elderly adults deemed gifted by childhood IQ tests, found that the higher their early IQs were, the longer they lived -- up to a point, at least. The survival advantage began to plateau after a childhood IQ of 163, an intelligence level few people reach.
Though the reasons for the link between IQ and longevity are not clear, it does not appear to be merely a reflection of income and social position. As children, the participants were from affluent families and most were white. Yet childhood IQ was still a factor in their lifespan.
Similarly, in an earlier study of Americans with more varied childhood IQs and family incomes, Martin found that IQ was related to health problems independently of socioeconomics.To quote an old redneck joke, I'm betting that none of these people's last words were "Hold my beer and watch this!" That may have something to do with it.
posted by Dr. Alice at #
