Life expectancy is defined as the average period that a person is expected to live. It is often used as a measure of a country’s overall health and wellbeing. Life expectancy has been increasing globally for several decades.

Countries with higher incomes, better access to healthcare, and education tend to have higher life expectancies. However, there is a persistent gender gap in life expectancy where, on average, women tend to live longer than men. Let us explore the various reasons for the gender gap in life expectancy.

Biological factors

Biological factors have an impact on the difference in life expectancy between men and women. For example, women have two X chromosomes and men have one X and one Y chromosome.

The second X chromosome provides additional genetic protection against certain diseases. Women are also less likely to suffer from genetic diseases such as Haemophilia, a blood clotting disorder usually passed from mother to son.

Testosterone is another factor. It drives biological functions in men’s bodies for development and is vital for a healthy sperm count, but high levels of testosterone can contribute to heart disease and other health concerns.

Men also have a higher risk of developing prostate or testicular cancer.

Behavioral factors

Behavioral factors such as lifestyle choices also impact the gender gap in life expectancy.

Studies have found that men more often engage in risky behaviors like smoking, drinking, drug use, and unsafe driving, which increase the likelihood of premature death. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to attend regular checkups, go for screenings, and take medications as prescribed.

Men are also more likely to have more physically demanding jobs, such as construction or manual labor, which can result in work-related injuries.

By experiencing more accidents, construction workers, firefighters and many other men have reduced their expected lifespans.

Environmental factors

Environmental factors also contribute to the discrepancy in life expectancy. Men tend to work in highly polluted industries such as mining and drilling, exposing them to higher levels of hazardous chemicals that can lead to serious health problems.

Men are also more likely to live in deprived areas with insufficient access to healthy food and healthcare as compared to women. In some regions, the lack of potable water also poses a substantial health risk to men, affecting the survival time.

Cultural factors

Cultural factors, such as traditional views of masculinity, may also affect men’s health.

Men are often encouraged to act as the providers for their families and are taught to avoid expressing their emotions or seeking emotional support when they are feeling down. This can lead to increased stress levels, which can contribute to several health conditions.

In conclusion, the gender gap in life expectancy is the result of several factors, including biological, behavioral, environmental, and cultural factors.

To reduce this gap, it is necessary to address each of these factors and take steps to encourage healthy lifestyle choices, improve access to healthcare and nutritious food, and reduce environmental exposure to hazardous chemicals. In addition, it is essential to address cultural norms and break down long-established gender stereotypes for men to take care of themselves better.