BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Summing up their secrets for a long life, centenarians in China's largest commercial city Shanghai are adamant that good living habits are more important than genes.

    By the end of the year there will be more than 800 people in Shanghai who are 100 years old or older, up a sprightly 200 on 2005, according to the Society for Senior Citizens of Shanghai.

    The longevity secrets of 50 centenarians living in Shanghai are revealed in a book compiled by the society.

    Wang Chuanfu, vice president of the society, said that genetic factors contribute 15 percent to longevity, social factors 10 percent, improvements in medical care 8 percent and climate conditions 7 percent.

    But the habits of the elderly account for a robust 60 percent, said Wang.

    Centenarians' lifestyle similarities include being cheerful and broad-minded, being kind to others, enjoying work, getting regular exercise, not being too choosy about food, having a good sleep pattern, not smoking, drinking relatively little alcohol and leading a harmonious family life.

    The secret of 105-year-old Pan Zhiyong is regular exercise. He has walked more than 2,000 meters everyday since he retired, Wang said.

    Healthy living habits reduce the incidence of many diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and tumors, Wang added. Enditem