UK Study Finds Small Association Between Frequent Arts Participation and Slower DNA-Methylation Ageing

Weekly participation in arts and cultural activities is linked to a slower pace of biological ageing, according to a study led by University College London academics that examined biological markers of ageing in DNA using seven epigenetic clocks. Researchers examined survey responses and blood test data from 3,556 UK adults. The study was published in the journal Innovation In Aging.

People who engaged with arts and cultural activities more often and had a broader range appeared to have a slower pace of ageing and a younger biological age. Those who took part in an arts activity at least once a week appeared to age up to 4% more slowly than those who rarely engaged with the arts.

The 4% slower ageing rate for weekly arts participation is the same magnitude as the difference between those who exercised at least once a week and those who did no physical activity.

Doing an arts activity at least three times a year was linked to ageing 2% more slowly compared with those who engaged fewer than three times a year.

People who engaged in arts and cultural activities at least weekly were a year younger on average compared with those who rarely engaged, according to one epigenetic clock. Activities found beneficial include reading, listening to music, or visiting a gallery or museum.

@Independent reported that the study, led by University College London academics, examined specific sites in DNA that regulate gene expression, known as DNA methylation, as markers of ageing.

DNA methylation patterns shift as years go by, forming the basis for epigenetic clocks. Previous work has shown arts engagement can lower stress, reduce inflammation, and improve heart disease risk. Professor Daisy Fancourt is the lead author from UCL’s Institute of Epidemiology and Health Care.

““These results demonstrate the health impact of the arts at a biological level.””

“— Professor Daisy Fancourt”

““They provide evidence for arts and cultural engagement to be recognised as a health-promoting behaviour in a similar way to exercise.””

“— Professor Daisy Fancourt”

““Our study provides the first evidence that arts and cultural engagement is linked to a slower pace of biological ageing.””

“— Dr Feifei Bu The academics behind the study propose that arts and cultural engagement should be recognised as a health-promoting behaviour in a similar way to exercise. Researchers found a variety of activities beneficial, including reading, listening to music, or visiting a gallery or museum. This is likely because each activity offers distinct physical, cognitive, emotional, or social stimulation.”