From Vitals Sutter Health – Helping Older Adults Live Independently, Longer and Healthier - Dr. Steve Cummings, director of Sutter’s San Francisco Coordinating Center and its Sequoia Center for the Science of Aging continues his work to curb the incidence of age-related illness by pursing longevity research. “Aging is a strong risk factor for chronic diseases such as cancer, stroke, type 2 diabetes and heart disease,” says Dr. Cummings. One of his studies is SOMMA (the Study of Muscle Mobility and Aging), the first study to examine human cells to discover what biological changes lead to loss of muscle mass and physical disability. “We hope this large study will uncover ways to help older adults maintain physical independence as they age,” says Dr. Cummings. As the study continues, what can older adults do to preserve physical strength? Dr. Cummings says the best strategies include regular physical activity, modest weight-bearing or resistance training and ensuring adequate daily intake of protein."

Read the full annoucement online at Vitals Sutter Health.