Figure 2.

Individual traits most strongly associated with LTL

The traits are shown on the y-axis and the β coefficients for the associations LTL on the x-axis. Error bars indicate 95% CIs. Effect in years is the ratio of the trait β coefficient and the absolute value of the age β coefficient (–0·023). Continuous traits are estimated for a 1 SD increase in the trait. Binary traits compare yes with no. Poor overall health rating is compared with excellent. Current smoking is compared with never. Always added salt is compared with never or rarely. Soft (tub) margarine is compared with olive-oil spread. Always standing job or usually manual job is compared with never or rarely. Processed meat, cheese, or oily fish intake (five or more times per week) is compared with never. Usually on a shift is compared with never. Muesli cereal intake is compared with other types. Wholemeal bread intake is compared with white bread. Brisk walking pace is compared with slow. University or college degree is compared with no qualifications. LTL=leukocyte telomere length.