ORIGINAL INVESTIGATION Exceptional Longevity in Men

Background: Prospective data on nongenetic determi-nants of exceptional longevity are limited, and informa-tion on long-livedmen and their functional status is par-ticularly sparse. We examined modifiable factors associated with a life span of 90 or more years and late-life function in men. Methods: In this prospective cohort study of 2357 healthy men (mean age, 72 years) within the Physi-cians ’ Health Study (1981-2006), biological and life-style factors and comorbid conditions were assessed by self-report with baseline and annual questionnaires.Mor-tality and incidence of major diseases were confirmed by medical record review. Late-life functionwas assessed 16 years after baseline by the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey. Results:A total of 970men (41%) survived to at least ag