A study using UK Biobank genetic data found a statistical link (not a cause-and-effect) between age of first sexual intercourse and later health outcomes.
People genetically linked to earlier sexual activity tended to have:
- slightly higher frailty in later life
- more mental and physical health risks (like COPD or ADHD in some pathways)
- lower overall wellbeing measures on average
However, researchers emphasize:
- this does NOT mean early sex causes aging problems
- results are based on genetic correlations, not simple life tracking
- many factors (mental health, environment, behavior) are involved