The Impact of 'Hasslers' on Biological Aging: A New Insight

'Hasslers,' difficult people in one's social network, accelerate aging by 1.5% and increase biological age by nine months. Women, smokers, those in poor health, and those with adverse experiences report more hasslers. Study highlights 'hasslers' as chronic stressors affecting aging, published in PNAS.

'Hasslers,' difficult individuals within one's social circle, may accelerate biological aging, according to a recent study. Each additional 'hassler' correlates to a 1.5% increase in the speed of aging and an increase of nine months in biological age.

The study, featured in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, found that negative social connections are widespread, with 30% of participants identifying at least one 'hassler' in their network. These effects are amplified when the 'hassler' is a family member.

Particularly vulnerable groups include women, individuals in poor health, daily smokers, and those with adverse childhood experiences. Researchers from New York University suggest that these interactions result in chronic stress, a significant contributor to accelerated aging. The study underscores the importance of interventions to mitigate harmful social exposures and promote healthier aging trajectories.

(With inputs from agencies.)