Old age may be approaching faster than many of us think, with a survey suggesting many adults are racing ahead of the clock.
About 70% of those who took part in the January survey of workers, commissioned by health insurer Southern Cross, were found to have a worse state of health than expected for their age.
Based on factors such as obesity, job stress and alcohol intake, the study calculated 53% had a health rating indicating their bodies were one to nine years older than their actual age.
And 18% gained at least 10 "penalty years" - meaning they would be expected to have the "range and frequency" of health problems associated with someone at least 10 years older.
Southern Cross has an interest in workers' health - as a provider of corporate health insurance and of wellness programmes.
Southern Cross chief executive of health insurance Peter Tynan said the results of the survey, done by TNS Conversa, were of concern because a workforce that was healthy was more productive and had less absenteeism.
The survey's findings underline a state-sponsored 2003 study on the effect of nutrition and lifestyle on premature death.
That study estimated that in 1997, up to 11,000 deaths - 40% of all deaths - were caused by poor diet and lack of physical activity and that many people would live longer by making only modest improvements.
Lost years
• 461 working people were asked about health factors such as smoking, alcohol, diet and stress. Height, weight, blood pressure and cholesterol ratings were recorded.
• Calculations indicated 18% had bodies effectively at least 10 years older than their actual age.
• 53%: 1-9 years older.
• 5%: No older.
• 22%: 1-9 years younger.
• 2%: At least 10 years younger.
