Are blue zones real? Answering that question is harder than ever Skepticism, business imperatives, and changing demographics are muddying the clear-blue waters

https://www.statnews.com/2026/05/04/are-blue-zones-real-new-scrutiny-longevity-hot-spots/ By Shelley Wood and Eric J. TopolMay 4, 2026 Wood is a medical journalist and author. Her most recent novel is “The Leap Year Gene of Kit McKinley.” Topol is a cardiologist, executive vice president, and professor, at Scripps Research.