Longevity medicine: the scientific challenge of adding life and energy to our years

Spain is among the countries with the highest life expectancy at 84 years, yet nearly 50% of people over 65 experience disease, disability, or loss of independence. Researchers and doctors are now focusing on preventive and longevity medicine to improve quality of life in later years, addressing what experts call a ‘medical paradox’—living longer but often in poor health. Cristina Spa, a pharmacist and founder of C+Longevity, aims to bridge advanced technology with clinical practice to promote healthy aging. Her initiative provides accredited training and scientific resources for health professionals, ensuring evidence-based approaches over unproven biohacking trends spreading via social media. The democratization of health information has led to misinformation and risky practices, according to Spa. She emphasizes the need for science-backed guidance from doctors, nurses, and specialists to prevent harm. Universities like Valencia are now establishing longevity research groups, offering academic credibility to the field and paving the way for it to become an official medical specialty. Older doctors, with experience in Spain’s public health system, are leading the push for preventive care. They highlight structural limitations, such as time constraints, that hinder personalized medicine. Longevity research has expanded beyond aesthetics to include immunologists, endocrinologists, and even pediatricians, reflecting its broad relevance. The Ibiza Tech Forum has spotlighted these efforts, positioning Spain as a global leader in longevity science. Spa’s work and academic research aim to standardize practices, ensuring longevity medicine is accessible, safe, and free from fraud.