In all countries of the world, there are more women than men. And women also live longer (at least 5-6 years) than men. Experts have spent decades trying to figure out why this difference exists. According to WorldData.info, The average life expectancy of women is about 71 years and 1 month and the average life expectancy of men is about 70 years and 6 months. So, this article will focus on why do women live longer than men?
Reasons Why Females Live Longer Than Males
Fetal reasons
Scientists have found that women live longer than men because of fetal factors. According to experts, male fetuses (XY) die at a higher rate than female fetuses (XX). The X chromosomes of females are identified as XX. And the male chromosome is shown as XY. These chromosomes play a unique role in gene retention. Studies have shown that women’s X chromosomes contain large amounts of genes, which is more than 1,000 that help them survive. Since there is more than one X chromosome in women if one chromosome has a genetic problem the other one can continue to function.
On the other hand, in the case of men, it is not possible. Because men have only one X chromosome and there is no chance of getting support if there are any significant issues with the X chromosome. Moreover, the X chromosome in women helps in the regeneration of long-lived telomeres cells in the inner part of the chromosome of women which makes them live longer.
In short, a female fetus is born as soon as it matures from the womb, which gives it a long life. On the other hand, it takes time for a male fetus to reach maturity, which continues after birth. This can be said to be one of the reasons for shortening the lifespan of a man.
Hormonal factors
Another reason for the increase or decrease in life expectancy in men and women is a type of hormone called testosterone. Researchers claim that the testosterone hormone is a special hormone that stimulates males to do high-risk work such as fighting, speedy driving, etc. Sometimes it may also turn a man into suicide. Therefore, men are more likely to die in risky jobs.
Moreover, male sex hormones can lower their immune function and increase the risk of various cardiovascular diseases. On the other hand, the estrogen hormones in women protect them. This is because it acts as an antioxidant in the female body, increasing the activity of enzymes. Moreover, estrogen is always trying to keep the normal functioning of the cell and keep it healthy. Further, estrogen eliminates harmful cholesterol from the body of women and even prevents heart disease. This naturally gives women a chance to live longer than men.
After childbirth, women produce a hormone called thyroxine. It boosts their immune system. As a result, women tend to have fewer diseases than men.
Human Genome
Recent researchers claim that women contribute to reproduction and that this contributes greatly to the human genome, which contributes to women’s longevity. Moreover, women live a less risky (such as drug or alcohol) lifestyle. Even strong social bonds are formed between them. Again, women are relatively health conscious so their life span is comparatively longer. Usually, they take more precautionary measures than men. This is also a mystery of longevity.
Source: United News of Bangladesh