Women tend to live longer than men, which has been observed across many countries and cultures. The phenomenon of
women's longer life expectancy is a complex interplay of various biological,
social, and lifestyle factors. Some of the key reasons for this difference
include:
Biological factors: Genetics and hormones play a role in
determining life expectancy. Women have two X chromosomes, while men have one X
and Y chromosome. Some research suggests that having two X chromosomes
might offer certain genetic advantages related to immune function and disease
resistance, contributing to a longer life.
Hormonal influence: Estrogen, the primary female sex
hormone, has been associated with a range of beneficial effects on
cardiovascular health, bone density, and the immune system. These effects may
contribute to women experiencing lower rates of certain age-related diseases
and conditions.
Risk-taking behaviour: Men, on average, tend to engage in
riskier behaviours, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and
dangerous activities. These behaviours can lead to higher mortality rates and a
shorter lifespan.
Cardiovascular health: Women generally have better
cardiovascular health than men, partly attributed to hormonal
differences. Estrogen has been linked to better cholesterol profiles and
improved blood vessel function.
Healthcare-seeking behaviour: Women often seek medical attention
more promptly and regularly than men. Regular health checkups and early
detection of illnesses can lead to better management of health conditions and
potentially longer life.
Social and lifestyle factors: In many societies, traditional
gender roles have influenced women to adopt healthier lifestyles, such as
maintaining stronger social connections and support networks. Additionally,
women may have better-coping mechanisms for dealing with stress, which can
impact overall health.
The life expectancy gap between
men and women has been gradually narrowing in some regions, partly due to changing societal norms and increased awareness about health and
wellness among men. However, the exact reasons for this difference may vary
across populations and could change over time as societal norms and healthcare
practices evolve.
Gender refers to the social aspects of being a woman or a
man, and sex refers to biology. Women have biological advantages that let them
live longer, such as estrogen, which reduces bad cholesterol and increases good
cholesterol.
When it comes to chronic diseases, women tend to have more
of them, but men have more fatal conditions. Men are at higher risk of chronic
diseases that are leading killers.
Studies have shown that women are more health conscious and
communicate better about their problems than males.
Risky behaviour and sensation-seeking
Women overestimate the risk of any type, while men
consistently underestimate it. This difference extends to almost any real task,
which is why women internalize, and men externalize.
Substance use is more common among men than women, and men
are more likely to abuse drugs and have drug dependence. Men also drive under
the influence of drugs and alcohol more frequently than women and are
responsible for four out of every five cases of driving under the influence.
Suicide
In most countries, men are more likely to die by suicide
than women. In the United States, most suicides are white men.
The high suicide rate among men may be due to the stigma
surrounding mental health issues and a tendency to avoid mental health care.
Thinking about gender
Gender differences in life expectancy are due to social,
psychological and behavioural factors, including sensation-seeking, risk-taking
traits, stigma, masculinity, and a tendency for externalizing behaviour.
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