The Record-Breaking Japanese Sisters
In September 2021, Guinness World Records officially certified Umeno Sumiyama and Koume Kodama, identical twin sisters from Japan, as the world's oldest identical twins ever. Born on November 5, 1913, on Shodo Island, they were 107 years and 300 days old at the time of verification. Umeno passed away in May 2023 at the age of 109, and Koume died in February 2022 at 108. The sisters, who were the third and fourth of 11 siblings, were separated after elementary school and lived most of their lives apart until their seventies. Their story gained significant attention, coinciding with Japan's Respect for the Aged Day. Their longevity is a testament to the country's famously high life expectancy.
Other Notable Records in Twin Longevity
While the Japanese sisters hold the record for identical female twins, other twin categories also have impressive longevity records. It is important to differentiate between records for specific twin types, which include identical (monozygotic), fraternal (dizygotic), and conjoined twins.
Record Holders for Different Twin Types
| Twin Type | Record Holders | Birthdates & Lifespans | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oldest Identical Twins (Female) | Umeno Sumiyama & Koume Kodama | Born Nov 5, 1913. Lived to 109 & 108. | Japan | Record confirmed in 2021. |
| Previous Oldest Identical Twins (Female) | Kin Narita & Gin Kanie | Born Aug 1, 1892. Kin died at 107, Gin at 108. | Japan | Held record until 2021. |
| Oldest Identical Twins (Male) | Dale Moyer & Glen Moyer | Born June 20, 1895. Lived to 105 & 109. | USA | Became oldest living twins in Jan 2000. |
| Oldest Living Conjoined Twins | Lori & George Schappell | Born Sept 18, 1961. Lived to 62. | USA | Died April 2024, surpassing all prior conjoined twin records. |
The Science Behind Twin Longevity
Why do some twins live so long? Scientific studies suggest a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a role. Research using twin studies has shown that genetics account for approximately 25% of the variation in lifespan, with this genetic influence becoming more pronounced at older ages.
- Genetic Factors: Studies have identified certain genetic variants (e.g., in the ABO, CDKN2B, APOE genes) that are more common in centenarians. For twins, especially identical twins who share all their DNA, a favorable genetic makeup could contribute to exceptional longevity. However, a significant portion of lifespan variance is also attributed to non-genetic, individual-specific environmental factors.
- Social Bonds: A Danish study found that twins, particularly identical twins, have a significantly higher survival rate than the general population, suggesting a 'marriage protection effect' or a 'twin protection effect'. The deep social and emotional bond often shared between identical twins may contribute to their overall health and longevity. This protective effect is also seen in married couples compared to single individuals. The connection between social relationships and health outcomes highlights the importance of strong social ties for a long life.
- Lifestyle and Environment: As with all cases of extreme longevity, lifestyle choices and environment are crucial. The oldest Japanese twins were part of a population with a very high life expectancy, likely influenced by healthy dietary traditions and robust healthcare systems. Regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and strong family ties are often common threads in the stories of centenarians, including twins.
The Challenge of Verifying Longevity Records
Establishing a world record for twin longevity requires meticulous documentation. Guinness World Records requires robust evidence, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, and other official records to verify age and twin status. Historically, record-keeping practices varied across different regions, and a more recent focus on verifying age claims, particularly in countries like Japan, has helped confirm a growing number of centenarians and supercentenarians. While this scrutiny ensures accuracy, it means some historic claims may remain unverified.
Conclusion
While the specific record holders for the oldest twins in the world can change, especially as centenarians pass, the story of the Japanese sisters, Umeno Sumiyama and Koume Kodama, stands as a remarkable chapter in human longevity. The quest to understand what allows some twins to live exceptionally long lives points to a blend of genetic predisposition, strong social bonds, and favorable environmental conditions. The stories of these and other long-lived twins provide not only fascinating records but also valuable insights into the complex factors influencing the human lifespan. Further research into twin and centenarian genetics will continue to shed light on the secrets of extreme longevity.
Optional Outbound Link: Learn more about the factors influencing life expectancy from research by the National Institutes of Health The quest for genetic determinants of human longevity.
