New research shows humans could live decades longer than current record age of 122

New research has shown humans could in fact live several decades longer than the current record age of 122. Scientists involved in the study have said they are “not even close” to reaching their maximum potential lifespan.

The new findings are based on an analysis of mortality rates dating back more than 3 centuries across 19 countries including the UK. Lead author of the study, Dr David McCarthy of Georgia University in the USA, has described the implications as "profound."

For most of recorded human history, the average life expectancy of our species has been between 20 and 40 years. That lifespan has doubled to around 80 years, mainly due to improvements in nutrition, clean water, better sanitation and the application of medical science.

Experts believe that further advancements in medicine, genetic manipulation and calorie restriction may extend life even further. The US team behind the research combined reasoning with probability - which is known as Bayesian theory - to work out potential maximum longevity.

The results showed mortality limits have only been postponed in recent years due to records