The medical and pharma industry in Düsseldorf is further supported by several high-profile fairs, the biggest of which is MEDICA. The international trade fair captures the global attention of the entire medical community, especially in relation to medical innovations. For breakthroughs and interesting research, the MEDICA MEDICINE + SPORTS CONFERENCE is where top experts explore cutting-edge concepts on longevity, prevention, and performance medicine. This year's focus on longevity is particularly intriguing. The idea of extending human lifespan has captivated imaginations for centuries, and now, with the rise of new technologies and research, it’s closer than ever to becoming reality. Among the conference's key topics will be the role of biological age and how it can be influenced by lifestyle factors such as diet, sleep, and exercise. Attendees will engage in interdisciplinary discussions that explore new approaches to physical health, rehabilitation, and sports performance, both in elite athletes and for general wellness. One of the highlights will be a presentation by Dr. Alen Juginovic from Harvard Medical School’s Department of Neurobiology. Dr. Juginovic’s research on the impact of sleep on cognitive function and immune response, particularly within professional sports teams like Real Madrid, has been widely recognized. His work stresses on the essential role of quality sleep in preventing chronic illness and enhancing performance, proving that sleep may be as important as physical training for longevity. In addition to sleep, the conference will cover the role of epigenetics in the aging process. Professor Wilhelm Bloch from the German Sport University Cologne will dive into how physical activity can switch genes on or off through natural changes in DNA, a process that could help slow aging. His findings in sports cardiology will offer insight into how athletes and the general population alike can benefit from understanding genetic responses to exercise.