Aging and Toxins

Aging is a complex phenomenon, with the interaction of genetics, disease, and environmental exposures. It is a challenge at times to separate the effects of the 3 on the process of aging. However, select epidemiologic studies and a review of aging processes shed light onto environmental toxins as a contributory factor to aging. A good example is the well-known effect of sun-related damage to the skin and premature aging with excessive exposure. Other toxins are ubiquitous in our environment and have shown harmful effects for the aging population in particular. This is owing to toxin damage to the various organ systems which are already in the process of decline owing to physiologic changes of aging. It is not surprising to note that some of the most dangerous toxins are prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.