While, arguably, there are a variety of factors that contribute to longevity, a good benchmark for determining whether a factor has been soundly determined to contribute to longevity is whether the factor is integrated into the acturarial calculations of insurance companies. I've yet to see an actuary that includes factors such as income quintile, net worth, social class, etc. into his or her calculations. Has anyone encountered this?
Doug
doug.bailey@ey.com