Biology/Is it proven?
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Question
Is it proven that we are living longer in good medical condition if we don't smoke, drink alcohol, eat fast food and exercise?
Dear Vera,
In science, things like this are not really said to be "proven." Rather, one can say that there is a strong statistical correlation between things like smoking, drinking alcohol, etc. and an increased chance of early death due to various ailments also associated with those habits.
So while we cannot say that it is *proven* that avoiding smoking, alcohol, etc. we will live longer, we can say that our statistical chances of acquiring certain disorders associated with those habits are less likely to afflict us.
Hope that helps.
Dana
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Answers by Expert:
Dana Krempels, Ph.D.
Expertise
I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!
Experience
At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).
Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980).
I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.
Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.
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