Women have often been seen to be the weaker sex and the ones to be protected, however when it comes to living longer on planet earth, they are miles ahead of their male counterpart. Mere observation of the surging rate widows around the world give lots of credence to this fact.

If you are still in doubt, take a look at the statistics, according to a list of verified 100 oldest people in the world, compiled between 1985 and 2016, 94 out of the 100 people on the list are women and only six men. The life expectancy of boys from the U.S is about six years less than that of girls and this trend is the same globally from the most industrialised world to developing nations. In a nutshell, statistics have indicated that women live longer than men.

What are the major reasons behind the numbers?

The reasons women live longer than men have been a sort of mystery for everyone including scientists. A lot of factors, biologically and otherwise have been attributed to be the reasons women live longer than men.

Stronger immune system - Researchers are of the opinion that oestrogen, the female sex hormone plays a very important role in building and keeping the female immune system up and running, while the male sex hormone, testosterone can indirectly suppress immunity. Oestrogen has been found to lower cholesterol and clogging of the arteries. The production of oestrogen contributes in delaying the onset of cardiovascular-related diseases in women. Women have also been found to produce white blood cells (lymphocytes), the white blood cell is actively involved in fighting against foreign bodies and infections.

Mindset – Despite the outcry for gender equality all over the world, women at the very centre of their existence still believe they are fragile if not weaker than men. Women are more inclined to talk more and take actions concerning their body and mind. Every woman wants to maintain a glowing skin and stay ever young and beautiful. This drive pushes women to go the extra mile to carry out healthy routine to keep their body in shape. A nutritionist will tell you it’s much easier for a lady to follow her diet routine than a man.

Hazardous occupation - Until the 1860s, childbearing was the most hazardous occupation as women in their numbers were laid to rest as a result of childbearing complications, but that has drastically reduced by the advent of healthcare facilities and the overall improvement in maternal healthcare.

When it comes to carrying out risky jobs, the number of men far outweighs the number of women. Men are often involved in jobs like firefighting, mining, construction sites workers, high-risk vehicular drivers, biking etc.

Lifestyle – The personal habits or lifestyle of women is one of the major reasons women outlive men. Alcoholism, gambling, drug abuse, fighting, homicide, cigarette smoking are higher among men than women. Alcoholism and cigarette smoking is a leading cause of liver and lung cancer.

Nature - Women of child bearing age are naturally getting rid of toxins or pro-oxidant iron monthly for almost 35 years of their lives. This helps in fighting against disease as all the major diseases come down to inflammation oxidation at the cellular level.

High death due to heart disease in men - Research has indicated that men are more likely to die from heart diseases even at a younger age than women. Men tend to develop heart disease at age 50s to 60s while the onset in women could be in their 80s. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and stress are seen as the likely contributing factors.

Delay diagnosis - Women are known to be more proactive in attending to adverse changes in their body system, seeking medical attention as soon as possible. Men, on the other hand, are known to avoid doctors or opening up to others concerning their health challenges until it becomes too late. Death due to delay diagnosis or poor treatment is higher in men than women

Men tend to commit suicide often - Women are naturally more intelligent and better stress managers than men. Women are more likely to build relationships with friends and create a relaxing environment for themselves. They share their problems and seek help when depressed. It’s a fact that men undertake fatal suicide attempts than women.

Nature may as well have a huge part to play on the reasons why women live longer than men, at every age the longevity odds is highly in favour of the female sex, about 120 males are conceived per 100 females but only 104 boys are birthed per 100 girls.

What must you do?

Everyone must strive to maintain a healthy lifestyle, exercise, drink moderately and seek medical attention as at when due.

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