Three Brazilian sisters, aged 109, 104, and 103, hold Guinness World Record for combined oldest siblings

In a world seeking the secret to a long life, three Brazilian sisters have captured global attention. Levita de Deus Nunes, 109, Zoraide de Deus Mota, 104, and Zulina de Deus Nunes, 103, living in Rio de Janeiro, now hold the Guinness World Record for the oldest living sisters, with a combined age of 316 years and 302 days.

Their remarkable longevity has attracted the interest of scientists, including those from the "Longest Living DNA Project" led by geneticist Mayana Zatz at the University of São Paulo. Researchers aim to uncover the biological factors and protective genes that enable them to reach such advanced ages while maintaining sharp physical and cognitive abilities. The presence of three lucid centenarians within the same family line makes the role of heredity a significant focus of their study.

Ben Meyers, executive director of LongeviQuest, an organization that verified the sisters' records, emphasized that while genetics plays a crucial role, geographical proximity, community living, and a robust family support system are equally vital. The sisters' lives have been marked by constant work and mutual aid. Levita, the eldest, worked at Rede Globo after a rural upbringing. Zoraide trained as a rural teacher and later as a nurse, raising five children in Rio. Zulina dedicated her life to crafts, sewing, and embroidery to support her six children.

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genetics plays a categorical role when several members of the same family nucleus manage to successfully overcome the barrier of 100 years.