The Gender Gap in Longevity: Why Women Live Longer
World Health Organization (WHO) data reveals a consistent global trend: women tend to live longer than men. On average, women reach 73.8 years of age, while men only reach 69.1 years. This disparity is not solely due to lifestyle choices, but also involves a complex interplay of biological and behavioral factors.
Lifestyle Differences
Women are often more proactive about their health. They tend to smoke less, drink less, and prioritize a balanced diet. Additionally, they are more likely to visit doctors regularly and undergo preventive checkups. These habits contribute significantly to their longevity. However, these behaviors alone cannot fully explain the gap, as similar patterns are observed across various species where females generally outlive males.
Biological Factors
Hormones play a crucial role in this difference. Estrogen and progesterone, which are more prevalent in women, have protective effects on the body. These hormones strengthen the immune system, act as antioxidants, and provide better protection against cardiovascular diseases. In contrast, testosterone, which contributes to male characteristics like muscle mass and vigor, may have long-term consequences. Studies suggest that higher levels of testosterone can accelerate degenerative processes and increase the risk of conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and prostate cancer.
Historical Context
Historically, men have been more inclined to take risks and neglect their health. A study from the Max Planck Institute for Biology of Ageing highlights that life expectancy statistics also include suicide rates, which are significantly higher among men than women. This further contributes to the gender gap in lifespan.
The Role of Testosterone: Insights from History
A fascinating study led by Korean scientist Han-Nam Park examined the lives of eunuchs in the Imperial Court of the Chosun Dynasty during the 19th century. These men had their testicles removed before puberty, effectively eliminating their testosterone production. The results were striking: these eunuchs lived around 70 years on average, compared to 50 years for other men in the court. Moreover, they were 130 times more likely to reach the age of 100 than the general male population in Korea at the time.
Genetic Advantages
Genetics also play a part in women’s longer lifespans. Women have two X chromosomes, while men have one X and one Y. This duplication allows women to “compensate for possible gene mutations and defects” on one X chromosome. This genetic redundancy provides an additional layer of protection against certain health issues.
Global Variations
Although the trend of women living longer than men is global, the gap varies by country. According to Our World in Data, some countries show a small difference of just two or three years, such as Nigeria or New Zealand. In other regions, like Russia or Belarus, the gap can exceed ten years. These differences are influenced by a combination of cultural, economic, and healthcare factors.
Early Life and Later Years
The gender gap in life expectancy begins at birth. Newborn baby boys are more vulnerable to diseases and genetic disorders, leading to a higher mortality rate. This gap persists into youth, often due to factors like violence and accidents. As people age, men face higher death rates than women, partly due to higher rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
Conclusion
The reasons behind the gender gap in longevity are multifaceted. From hormonal influences and genetic advantages to lifestyle choices and historical trends, a combination of factors contributes to why women tend to live longer than men. Understanding these elements can help in developing strategies to improve health outcomes for all genders.
