For more in depth information about the role of  telomeres in our bodies, this book is worth the read.

“Short telomeres may actually cause you to live a shorter life by making you vulnerable to disease.Long telomeres may cause you to live a longer life by protecting you from disease. When it comes to telomeres, I say length matters, and the longer the better.”Dr. Elaine Chin “

Source: Lifelines – Unlock the Secrets of Your Telomeres for a Longer, Healthier Life