Institute of Gerontology: War accelerated aging of Ukrainians by 10–15 years

Illustration of the impact of war stress on human aging. Photo: open sources

On March 15, 2026, researchers at the Dmytro Chebotaryov Institute of Gerontology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine reported that the war has led to accelerated aging across the population, with many Ukrainians now having a biological age 10–15 years higher than their chronological age. The findings were reported by Glavcom, citing the institute’s research.

Observations began in the spring of 2022. Scientists examined residents of the Kyiv region and territories affected by active hostilities, wounded soldiers, and people who had lived under occupation. A long-term study is ongoing in the village of Byshev, where specialists regularly assess the health of local residents over the age of 30.

According to Valentyna Chyzhova, head of the Department of Pharmacotherapy of Age-Related Diseases, even civilians who did not take part in combat but experienced severe stress are showing signs of premature aging comparable to those seen in soldiers after blast injuries.

Researchers focused primarily on mental health and the cardiovascular system. Nearly 80% of those examined showed vascular dysfunction, more than 40% had impaired kidney function, and some patients exhibited signs of prediabetes or diabetes. Anxiety and depressive disorders were also widespread.

Scientists note that the consequences of the war affect not only individual health but also the country’s demographic outlook. The study is ongoing: the institute and local authorities have signed a long-term agreement to monitor the health of populations in affected regions.

Earlier, the UOJ reported that Olena Zelenska had warned of a critical decline in Ukraine’s birth rate.

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