Outlive

introduction

from the book

“Why does the world need another book about longevity? I’ve asked myself that question often over the last few years…

This is how I see my role: I am not a laboratory scientist or clinical researcher but more of a translator, helping you understand and apply these insights. … My approach to longevity is firmly rooted in science, but there is also a good deal of art in figuring out how and when to apply our knowledge to you, the patient, with your specific genes, your history and habits, and your goals.

I believe that we already know more than enough to bend the curve. That is why this book is called Outlive. I mean it in both senses of the word: live longer and better. …

My goal is to create an actionable operating manual for the practice of longevity. A guide that will help you Outlive. I hope to convince you that with enough time and effort, you can potentially extend your lifespan by a decade and your health span possibly by two, meaning you might hope to function like someone twenty years younger than you.

But my intent is not to tell you exactly what to do; it’s to help you learn how to think about doing these things. … More broadly, longevity demands a paradigm-shifting approach to medicine, one that directs our efforts toward preventing chronic diseases and improving our health span—and doing it now rather than waiting until disease has taken hold or until our cognitive and physical function has already declined. It’s not ‘preventive’ medicine; it’s proactive medicine, and I believe it has the potential to not only change the lives of individuals but also to relieve vast amounts of suffering in our society as a whole. This change is not coming from the medical establishment, either; it will happen only if and when patients and physicians demand it."

As per the back cover of the book: Peter Attia, MD, is the founder of Early Medical. He received his medical degree from Stanford University School of Medicine and trained at Johns Hopkins Hospital in general surgery.