BHARAT Study

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, has initiated a large-scale study named BHARAT, short for ‘Biomarkers of Healthy Aging, Resilience, Adversity, and Transitions’. This ambitious project is a key component of IISc’s broader Longevity India Program.

Objectives of the BHARAT Study:

• Mapping Aging Indicators: The study aims to meticulously map the physiological, molecular, and environmental indicators that influence and drive the aging process specifically within the Indian population.
• Comprehensive Data Collection: The BHARAT database will include a wide array of data points:
  • Genomic biomarkers: Such as mutations linked to disease susceptibility.
  • Proteomic indicators: Reflecting various biological pathways.
  • Metabolic indicators: Providing insights into metabolic health.
  • Environmental and lifestyle factors: Understanding their role in aging.

Context and Significance:

• Rising Life Expectancy: Globally, life expectancy has seen a significant increase over recent decades. In India, it has notably climbed by 4.1 years to 67.3 in the first two decades of this century.
• Proactive Health Markers: The study addresses a critical need for proactive markers of health. These are indicators that can signal when an organ is functioning below its optimal level, even before it manifests as a full-blown disease.
• Potential for Intervention: Identifying early warning signs of age-related changes through this study can enable:
  • Better prediction of age-related diseases.
  • Timely interventions.
  • Potential delay in the onset of various diseases.

(Source: TH)