People with higher IQ test scores from early life are more likely to survive to old age, and less likely to have illnesses such as cardiovascular disease – according to findings by a renowned Scottish expert.
Acknowledged as a world leading expert in differential psychology, Professor Ian Deary will outline his research into the associations between IQ and mortality at the University of Aberdeen this evening (Tuesday 17 June).
Guest speaker at the institute's annual College of Life Sciences and Medicine Graduate School Lecture, Professor Deary - who collaborates with Professor Lawrence Whalley, at the University of Aberdeen - will showcase the evidence behind the relationship between health and intellect in his presentation entitled Why is IQ a predictor of death?.
Based on findings taken from large sample groups across the globe, Professor Deary's research has been described as some of the most important work into the causes of mental deterioration during ageing.
His presentation will explore how a number of variables including personality traits, reaction times, genes and socio-economic factors should be taken account to explain how a person's IQ is related to their health.
Based at the University of Edinburgh, Professor Deary currently leads a research team studying cognitive ageing, which aims to follow up on the progress of those who took part in the Scottish Mental Surveys of 1932 and 1947. Elected a Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences in 2007, his research includes the application of molecular genetic and brain imaging techniques to the understanding of cognitive ability differences.
Dr Bernadette Connolly, Director College of Life Sciences and Medicine Graduate School, University of Aberdeen said: "Recognised as a world leading expert in the affects of ageing on the mind, The University of Aberdeen is delighted to host Professor Deary as this year's guest lecturer.
"The annual College of Life Sciences and Medicine Graduate School Lecture is designed to engage staff and students from across the College with contemporary and cutting-edge research work from within the sector. Professor Deary's revolutionary studies are an ideal example of the kind of forward thinking progress which is being made in the field of life sciences and medicine, and we are confident his lecture will be enthusiastically received."