Exposome, aging, and longevity: The role of sex and gender differences in health and mortality

This chapter explores the exposome as a comprehensive framework for understanding aging and longevity, focusing on its pathways and interactions with sex and gender differences. The exposome encapsulates the cumulative environmental exposures to which individuals are exposed throughout life that shape health and mortality outcomes. By examining global populations, the chapter illuminates how detrimental factors, such as pollution and occupational hazards, accelerate aging, while protective elements, such as environment, lifestyle, and social cohesion, support healthier trajectories. Sex and gender differences add complexity, as biological factors such as hormones and genetic susceptibilities interact with gendered behaviors and social norms to create distinct aging trajectories. Disparities persist among vulnerable subpopulations, underscoring the need for inclusive research and equitable interventions. This chapter advocates for holistic strategies to mitigate environmental risks and leverage protective factors, offering insights to improve healthspan, address disparities, and promote resilience. Integrating the exposome with the science of aging offers transformative opportunities to redefine aging and longevity globally.