EconTalk Peter Attia on Lifespan, Healthspan, and Outlive
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Sep 25, 2023 
Dr. Peter Attia, a physician and author of "Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity," argues we should prioritize healthspan over lifespan in healthcare. He dives into the evolution of medical practices, emphasizing the need for quality of life alongside longevity. Attia discusses the complexities of cancer treatment and the importance of personalized medical approaches. He critiques nutritional epidemiology, advocates for tracking health metrics, and highlights physical fitness and emotional well-being as key to enhancing longevity.
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The Egg Dream
- Peter Attia recounts a recurring dream from his residency involving catching eggs falling from a building.
- This symbolized his feeling of making last-minute efforts to extend lifespan without meaningfully improving healthspan.
Healthspan vs. Lifespan
- Healthspan, unlike lifespan, focuses on the quality of life, including physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being.
- Patients prioritize healthspan over simply living longer, highlighting a disconnect in the current healthcare system.
Medicine 2.0's Blind Spot
- Medicine 2.0, built on germ theory and randomized controlled trials, excels at treating acute illnesses but struggles with chronic diseases.
- The focus on lifespan has led to neglecting the more crucial aspect of improving the quality of life.
