Ever wonder what the reasons are why women live longer than men, on average? Here are some ideas to ponder…
Statistics show that women tend to live on average, another five to eight years longer than men. There are various factors that affect longevity – lifestyle, health, habits, environment, social status, economic status, etc. But you might be wondering – why do women have a longer lifespan than men? What does sex have to do with life expectancy? Can men do something about it so the gap can be narrowed down?
It’s In The Biology
Women’s biological characteristics are the main reasons that they have a longer life expectancy than men. Science shows that a woman’s chromosomes and hormones contribute to making her life longer. For instance, estrogen keeps fat from building up around organs, which can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular issues.
A male’s testosterone, on the one hand, is responsible not only for their bigger body build and a deeper voice, but can also be attributed to faster age-related changes. Testosterone keeps a man strong and healthy early in life, but over time, it can leave them open to illness and disease, such as infections, heart disease, and cancer.
Women also have two X chromosomes, and the second one acts as a backup when genes kind of malfunction. Having X and Y chromosomes, men don’t have that extra copies of genes, so when cells malfunction, they are at greater risk of contracting diseases.
In addition, a woman’s menstrual cycle also increases the heart rate, which may be equated to moderate exercise. Women may visit the doctor or hospital more often than men, but generally, their visit is due to non-life threatening problems, such as migraines or arthritis, or other ‘women’s problems.’ Conversely, men are more prone to developing cardiovascular disease, which is one of the top culprits for their high mortality risk.
Unfortunately, men won’t go see a doctor even when they have symptoms that should motivate them to go there.
A woman’s body is also subject to many challenges, particularly during pregnancy. Mothers are responsible for the survival of their infants; therefore women have been wired to be survivors.
It’s In The Behavior
Another reason that can be credited for a woman’s longer life span compared to a man is in their behavior. Many men tend to smoke and drink, eat poorly, and not exercise. These factors make them more susceptible to stroke, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and many other diseases. They are also risk-takers, adrenaline seekers, and have a stronger appetite for adventure, which is why accidental deaths are most common among young men from age 15 to 24.
Women, on the other hand, tend to lean more towards safety than danger. That doesn’t mean all women do not engage in risky adventures! Many do, but they are more in tune with the ‘death’ risks than many men. Women also generally don’t smoke or drink as much as men, and the ones who live longer usually eat right, exercise and have a positive outlook on life.
It’s In The Social Situation
While women often live longer than men today, it was not always the case. In ancient times, women tended to die earlier than men. This is because of their social status. Men were more important than women. As society changed, and women began taking active roles in society, became educated, and became successful in their careers, their mortality also changed.
Women are more empowered today. They have higher self-worth and a more optimistic view of life, which helps in increasing their lifespans. Innovations in science, such as safer birth control and delivery methods, are also to be credited for the increase in a woman’s longevity.
It’s In The Lifestyle
One thing is certain. The life expectancy gap is narrowing between males and females. Many men are taking care of their health more, and many women are wanting to take more risks, and do what the men do.
Whatever your gender is, there is really no telling when you will die or whether you will live longer. No-one can absolutely control that. Even so, it is important to know the factors that can contribute to a longer life expectancy.
We might not be able to do much about our biology, but we can make some changes to our lifestyle and behavior, so we can spend more years alive! So set your goals and have a longer and healthier life…together.
