It is a well-known fact that women tend to live longer than men. Globally, women comprise nearly two-thirds of the population of people aged 60 years and above.

The difference in lifespan between men and women is evident across different regions and countries, and while socioeconomic factors may play a role, research has shown that there are biological reasons why women tend to live longer than men.

1. Estrogen

Estrogen is a hormone that is primarily produced in women’s ovaries. It is involved in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and is responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics. But estrogen also has an impact on aging.

It is a potent antioxidant that can help fight oxidative stress, which is a major contributor to aging and age-related diseases. Estrogen also plays a role in reducing inflammation, which is associated with many chronic diseases.

2. Telomeres

Telomeres are the protective caps on the ends of our chromosomes, and they shorten as we age. When our telomeres become too short, our cells can no longer replicate and divide, leading to cellular senescence.

Research has shown that women tend to have longer telomeres than men, which may be one reason why they live longer.

3. Immune system

Women tend to have a stronger immune system than men, which could be due in part to the role of estrogen in the immune system. Estrogen can help activate immune cells and enhance the immune response.

Women also produce fewer pro-inflammatory cytokines, which are involved in chronic inflammation, than men. Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to many age-related diseases.

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4. Lifestyle factors

Lifestyle factors also play a role in why women tend to live longer than men. Women generally smoke and drink less than men, which are two major risk factors for many chronic diseases.

Women also tend to be more health conscious and are more likely to engage in regular physical activity and eat a healthier diet.

5. Men’s riskier behavior

A study by the World Health Organization found that men engage in riskier behavior than women, which puts them at higher risk for accidents and injuries. Men are also more likely to work in dangerous occupations, such as construction or the military.

These factors can increase men’s risk of premature death.

6. Genetics

Finally, genetics may also play a role in why women tend to live longer than men. Researchers have identified several genes that are linked to longevity, and some of these genes are more commonly found in women than in men.

Conclusion

While the exact reasons why women live longer than men are not fully understood, research has shown that there are several biological factors that contribute to this trend.

Estrogen, telomeres, the immune system, lifestyle factors, men’s riskier behavior, and genetics all play a role. However, it is important to note that these factors are not set in stone, and lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on lifespan. By making healthy choices, both men and women can increase their chances of living a long and healthy life.