Study Examines Why Stress May Shorten Lifespan

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - There are many people who believe stress can cause illness and even shorten a person's lifespan. A new report from Tulane University tries to find out why.

According to the researchers reporting in the journal Molecular Psychiatry, caps on the ends of chromosomes, these are structures that contain DNA,  actually shorten as we age. Scientists believe this shortening occurs when people are under stress or have health problems.

This is a very interesting report because it takes a look at the effect of stress and a physical reaction which occurs. One which could have dramatic implications.

Reported by Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio