Key points from article :
Her team recommended WHO gives aging its own disease classification in the ICD-11.
Concluded that aging fits the WHO definition of a disease from numerous standpoints:
1. several key pathological processes behind aging identified
2. some interventions have been proved effective (e.g. lifestyle changes, drugs)
3. aging is firmly linked to certain genetic & environmental factors
WHO introduced a new extension code – “Aging-related” – in the “Causality” section.
Lack of ICD code has hampered investment into longevity research and development.
e.g. immunosenescence treatment will fall under “Aging-related acquired immunodeficiencies” - could be recommended to everybody over 60.
As more clinical data emerges, hopefully WHO will promote to a broader category.
Need a consensus on which biomarkers of aging to be used in clinical trials.
Lack of clinical trials is blocking effective anti-aging therapies.
Pathological changes should not be considered normal whenever they occur.
