Researchers assess Bolotana's potential as a new Blue Zone for female centenarians

Demographers headed by Giovanni Mario Pes of the University of Sassari are evaluating whether Bolotana, a central Sardinian village, should be designated as a new Blue Zone because of its remarkable concentration of female centenarians. The analysis focused on two metrics: survival rates after age 70 and the probability of attaining 100, with Bolotana’s women achieving a world-leading score, surpassed only by Hong Kong.

Historical records show that over a century ago many residents were born in the area, and a notable share have lived to 100; currently six women born in the mid-1920s are still alive, and the mayor predicts two additional centenarians may emerge this year. Gender differences are stark: men who reach 70 have a 4.92 % chance of becoming centenarians, while women enjoy a 13.83 % chance, compared with the Italian average of 3.54 %.

The study also examined lifestyle factors such as a diet rich in locally produced grains and vegetables and daily walking distances of up to 20 km to fields. Bolotana joins other Sardinian regions and global sites like Okinawa, Ikaria, the Nicoya Peninsula and Loma Linda in the list of areas noted for exceptional longevity.