Social media users are increasingly sharing results from 'biological age' tests, which claim to measure how old your body really is at a molecular level. Unlike chronological age, which counts years lived, biological age aims to assess cellular wear and tear. The trend has gained traction on platforms like TikTok, where users boast about their youthful biological age or share anti-ageing tips.
Experts caution that while the science behind these tests is promising in research settings, individual results can be unreliable. The tests analyse DNA methylation patterns, known as 'epigenetic clocks', which have been shown to predict disease risk and mortality in population studies. However, a 2022 study found that identical samples could produce results varying by up to nine years, raising concerns about precision.
Commercial providers use different methods and algorithms, often undisclosed, making it difficult to compare accuracy. Moreover, the tests are not diagnostic tools; they offer only a general proxy for ageing without specific insights into what might be causing accelerated ageing or how to improve it. Consumers typically receive generic health advice regardless of their results.
Health-conscious individuals may find the tests motivating, but experts warn against overinterpretation. The lack of standardisation and potential for misleading outcomes means a 'young' result could be false reassurance, while an 'old' result might cause unnecessary anxiety. As the trend continues, experts urge caution and emphasise that these tests are best used in research, not for personal health decisions.
