Abstract
In recent years, the study of human health and longevity from the perspective of environmental geochemistry has opened up a new field within environmental science. Tungsten (W) and molybdenum (Mo), both belonging to the same group of elements, are essential trace elements for biological systems and play important roles in human health. However, whether the background levels of W and Mo in a region are statistically associated with human longevity remains a scientific question worthy of investigation. This study employs Origin, SPSS mathematical statistical methods, and Overly spatial analysis techniques to investigate this issue within the research area of Yunnan Province, China. (1) Dynamic correlation evolution: The correlation between ω(W) and the longevity index evolved from non-significant during the Fifth National Census to significantly weak positive correlations in the Sixth and Seventh National Censuses. In contrast, ω(Mo) consistently showed no significant correlation across the three census periods. The ratio ω(W/Mo) shifted from a weak negative correlation to a weak but significant positive correlation. (2) Spatial analysis: Regions with high ω(W) values (66 counties) demonstrated clear longevity advantages. The proportion of counties with longevity above the national average first increased and then slightly decreased over time. These high-ω(W) counties were stably clustered in four major geographical units: the Hengduan Mountains, southwestern Yunnan, southern Yunnan, and central Yunnan. By contrast, The longevity advantages in high ω(Mo) value areas (87 counties/districts) exhibited an "inverted U-shaped" trend, widely distributed across six major fault zones and geomorphic regions, yet sharply contracted in the most recent decade. The results suggest that changes in elemental exposure intensity, potentially driven by anthropogenic activities, may be a key factor influencing regional longevity patterns. Provides a basis for exploring the relationship between trace elements in the regional geochemical environment and human health. However, the specific processes and mechanisms underlying these patterns warrant further investigation.
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This study re-employed data from the Geophysical and Geochemical Atlas of Yunnan Province alongside statistical data from China’s Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh National Population Censuses.
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This work was supported by the ‘Identification and Tourism Utilisation of Key Natural Wellness Factors in the Yunnan Plateau’ [No Grant Number].
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This study re-employed data from the Geophysical and Geochemical Atlas of Yunnan Province alongside statistical data from China’s Fifth, Sixth, and Seventh National Population Censuses.
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Lai, M., Wang, J., Zhu, S. et al. Relationship and distribution patterns between geochemical backgrounds of W and MO and regional longevity in Yunnan, China. Sci Rep (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-50575-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-50575-2
