The 20th century witnessed steady and dramatic extensions of longevity in the United States. At the beginning of the 20th century, U.S. life expectancy was just under 50 years. By the end of the century, it had extended to almost 80 years.

In this article by Kimberly Whaley, Partner, Whaley Estate Litigation and a certified specialist in Estates and Trust Law, she considers certain estate law issues that may arise given recent scientific advances in the field of genetics and assisted reproduction, and how the courts are likely to react to these issues. (Conference for Advanced Life Underwriting)

Catch Hank's article on Rx Underwriting, a look at the genetics of Huntington's Disease, a piece on medical advances that affect the industry, and more.

A genetic variation previously linked to longevity may also protect against the development of Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, according to a new study. The variant affects cholesterol metabolism, boosting levels of high density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as "good" cholesterol, but it's not yet clear how it could promote healthy aging in the brain. The new findings are likely to heighten interest in finding ways to chemically enhance good cholesterol--experimental drugs that mimic the molecular effects of the genetic variant are already in clinical tests for heart disease.

Scientists are finally starting to find medical information of value.

This report provides Clinical Laboratory Improvement Advisory Committee (CLIAC) recommendations for good laboratory practices for ensuring the quality of molecular genetic testing for heritable diseases and conditions. The recommended practices address the total testing process (including the preanalytic,analytic,and postanalytic phases),laboratory responsibilities regarding authorized persons,confidentiality of patient information,personnel competency,considerations before introducing molecular genetic testing or offering new molecular genetic tests,and the quality management system approach to molecular genetic testing. These recommendations are intended for laboratories that perform molecular genetic testing for heritable diseases and conditions and for medical and public health professionals who evaluate laboratory practices and policies to improve the quality of molecular genetic laboratory services. This report also is intended to be a resource for users of laboratory services to aid in their use of molecular genetic tests and test results in health assessment and care. Improvements in the quality and use of genetic laboratory services should improve the quality of health care and health outcomes for patients and families of patients.

From Gen Re's Risk Insights publication.

A small chunk of DNA linked to schizophrenia, mental retardation, and autism may change the way we think about disease.