A person’s genes play a far greater role in likely lifespan than previously thought, according to a major new study published Thursday in the journal Science. Watch NBC6 free wherever you are WATCH HERE WATCH HEREThis new finding is strikingly higher than previous estimates, which have calculated the role of genetics in lifespan could range from 6% to 33%. Through treating these two categories of death separately, the researchers said they were able to get a far more accurate estimate of the relationship between genetics and lifespan. Scheibye-Knudsen, who wrote an editorial published alongside the study, said that through looking at other species, it’s already clear that genes play a significant role in determining lifespan. “We know that your genes play an enormous role in how you respond to infection,” said Verdin, who suggested that tweaking the analysis might slightly lower the apparent genetic contribution to lifespan.