No one can fully predict the future of medicine, but Cerf said that people can evaluate their present habits based on their expectations for longevity.
For instance, people who want to live a longer-than-average life need to focus on preserving their brain and heart health, which can be accomplished (in part) through a diet of leafy greens, nuts, and certain berries, paired with regular exercise, according to cardiologists.
People who have different goals may feel fine about exposing themselves to greater risk factors if their long-term health isn't as important to them as short-term satisfaction.