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Fear of the unknown may cut lifespan

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A new study indicates animals with an innate phobia of novelty have higher levels of stress hormones after a new experience and die significantly younger. That is these animals feared something new, unexpected or different and with constant exposure, died significantly younger.

A new study indicates animals with an innate phobia of novelty have higher levels of stress hormones after a new experience and die significantly younger. That is these animals feared something new, unexpected or different and with constant exposure, died significantly younger.The study, by University of Chicago scientists, suggests a lifetime of fearful stress can take an accumulated toll on health. Lead researcher Sonia Cavigelli said, “It shows we need to consider personality traits and behavioral styles when trying to understand physiological mechanisms of health.” Stress is known to have many negative effects on health, but it is also known in some cases to enhance one’s immune response for inflammation. So Cavigelli and research colleague Martha McClintock told NewScientist.com the lifelong effects on stress on an individual are difficult to gauge. Whether the link between neophobia, or the feat of new experiences, and lifespan exists in humans is still unclear. One complication, said Cavigelli, is that children are encouraged to overcome their fears, which may change their response to new things and people. “Shy kids don’t always grow up to be shy adults,” notes Cavigelli. (Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, United Press International, MEDLINE Plus, Dec 2003)


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Posted On: 22 December, 2003
Modified On: 5 December, 2013

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