The Examination of the Factors That Contribute to Women's Longer Lives: Uncovering Biological, Social, and Behavioral Realities
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In the world today, women generally live longer than men, with the difference typically hovering between 5 to 7 years in modern developed nations. This phenomenon is a complex interplay of biological, behavioral, and social factors.
Biologically, genetic differences, hormone profiles, and anatomical features contribute to female resilience and better survival even under harsh conditions like famines and epidemics. Estrogen, the dominant female hormone, has several protective effects, such as reducing bad cholesterol, boosting the immune system, and having anti-inflammatory properties [2]. On the other hand, testosterone, the dominant male hormone, is linked to higher levels of risk-taking, suppresses the immune system, and may increase susceptibility to heart disease over time [2].
Behaviorally and socially, factors like risk-taking tendencies, occupational hazards, and lifestyle choices tend to differ by gender, often disadvantaging men. Men are more likely to engage in unhealthy coping mechanisms such as heavy alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and smoking [2]. In contrast, women are more likely to seek medical attention early, whether for a new symptom, a scheduled screening, or a yearly checkup [2].
Women tend to maintain deeper, more consistent social ties throughout life, which serve as protective factors against depression, loneliness, and stress-related illness. Men, especially as they age, often lose social ties and don't replace them, which can contribute to various health issues such as cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline [2].
The better question isn't just why do women live longer?, but What can men learn from them to live better and longer, too? If men address societal pressure to "man up," seek medical care proactively, open up emotionally, wear seatbelts, eat fewer processed foods, get better sleep, and talk to friends, the gap between men's and women's life expectancy can shrink dramatically [1].
Greater gender equality further enhances life expectancy for both genders but often helps women more initially, which may narrow the lifespan gap over time. Higher gender equality worldwide is associated with longer life expectancy for both men and women, as improvements in working and living conditions, access to healthcare, education, and income benefit overall longevity [4].
It's important to note that this longevity advantage is nuanced. For instance, women physicians do not always display this advantage, particularly Black women physicians who show higher mortality rates from certain diseases [1].
In conclusion, women outlive men primarily due to innate biological advantages supported by protective hormones and genetics, alongside fewer health-harming behaviors and social factors that promote better health outcomes over the lifetime. By learning from women's behavior and social patterns, men can make positive changes to improve their own health and longevity.
References:
[1] Hays, J. (2017). Why Women Live Longer: The Story of Sex Differences in Ageing. Oxford University Press.
[2] McArdle, W. D., & Nusbaum, C. (2012). The Science of Ageing: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.
[3] National Center for Health Statistics. (2020). Health, United States, 2020: Trends in the Health of Americans. Hyattsville, MD: National Center for Health Statistics.
[4] World Health Organization. (2017). Women's health and gender equality: a call to action. Geneva: World Health Organization.
- Despite men generally living shorter lives, the gap can be reduced if men adopt healthier lifestyles that mirror those seen in women's cultures and careers.
- Technology, with its advancements in health-and-wellness, mental-health, and mens-health monitoring, could provide critical tools for men to proactively manage their health and extend their lifespan.
- In the realm of sports, a focus on nutrition and physical fitness can help men emulate the health-protective behavior displayed by women.
- Food choices that prioritize organic, minimally-processed ingredients, similar to the food choices advocated in the health-and-wellness movement, could contribute to healthier lifestyles for men.
- Providing equal opportunities in science and technology industries, where women have historically been underrepresented, would not only promote gender equality but also enhance the overall mental and physical well-being of both genders.
- As women's health and wellness become more prominent in society, it creates an opportunity for both genders to equally prioritize and celebrate self-care, leading to a positive ripple effect on their lifestyles and longevity.
