The Haenyeo, a group of women divers from Jeju Island, South Korea, are renowned for their ability to freedive in frigid waters, often continuing this practice into their 80s.

A recent study published in Cell Reports reveals that their exceptional diving capabilities are a result of both extensive training and specific genetic adaptations.

Geneticist Melissa Ilardo, who led the study, noted that these adaptations influence the health of the local population, particularly in relation to blood pressure.

The research highlights that Haenyeo maintain significantly lower diastolic blood pressure during dives compared to mainland Koreans, linked to a gene variant found in one-third of Jeju natives.

These findings suggest that natural selection may favor these genetic adaptations, especially among women who dive during pregnancy, prompting further investigation into their health implications.

Understanding these adaptations could provide insights into health issues such as hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and stroke, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.

The Haenyeo practice sustainable diving by rotating their harvests seasonally, demonstrating a deep custodial relationship with the sea that supports marine resource regeneration.

As climate change intensifies, studying these traditional diving populations becomes crucial for understanding human resilience in extreme environments.

Additional genetic variations related to red blood cell count and sensitivity to pain and cold have also been identified, which are particularly relevant to their diving conditions.

Further research is needed to explore the full implications of these genetic findings and their effects on broader health outcomes in diving populations.

The Haenyeo typically begin diving training around age ten and can dive to depths of nearly 33 feet for about 30 seconds, often in water temperatures below 55°F.

The study involved measuring heart rate and blood pressure during simulated dives, providing a clearer understanding of how these women adapt to their challenging environment.