Singapore has been recognized as the newest “blue zone” — a term for regions where people enjoy notably longer and healthier lives.
Dan Buettner, the originator of the “blue zones” concept, noted, “Singapore has the highest health-adjusted life expectancy in the world. It’s clear that their approach to health is working, enabling the longest, healthiest lives globally.”
Blue zones are distinguished by having significantly more centenarians per capita than the U.S.
The original five blue zones include Ikaria in Greece, Okinawa in Japan, Nicoya in Costa Rica, Sardinia in Italy, and Loma Linda in the United States. Now, Singapore has been added to Buettner’s updated list, referred to as “blue zone 2.0.”
Unlike the original blue zones, which formed naturally, the new additions are designed by human intervention.
Buettner explained that traditional blue zones are diminishing as they adopt more Western lifestyles, which often reduce physical activity and decrease interpersonal connections due to technological advances.
In 2004, Buettner collaborated with National Geographic and the National Institute of Aging to investigate and ‘reverse engineer’ the secrets to longevity. They pinpointed locations where people live longer and identified the reasons behind their extended lifespans.
They discovered the “Power 9” principles, which include engaging in regular physical activity, having a sense of purpose, managing stress, and surrounding oneself with health-conscious individuals.
Singapore has been intentionally developed as a hub of longevity, incorporating these health-promoting practices into its societal framework.
[Click here to learn more about the strategies Singapore uses to promote longevity.]
