Why retiring means our immunity gets far weaker too

Scientists have discovered why a key organ retires at the same time as we do – stopping the production of cells that are vital to good health.

The thymus produces T cells, which help the body to fight infection and disease. But it virtually stops working around the age of 65, meaning our immune systems become far weaker.

With age, the thymus – located behind the breastbone – shrinks and the T-cell-producing areas are replaced with fatty tissues, while 'scarring' prevents regeneration.

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