Men Have a Lower Life Expectancy Than Women: Why?

Regarding life expectancy, men have a statistically lower life expectancy than that of their female counterparts. On average, women tend to live five years longer than men. More than half of those who are 65 or older are women. Worldwide, women live up to seven years longer than men. So what’s behind the mysterious numbers?

Biological and Cultural Tendencies

Understanding the differences in life expectancy starts with understanding that it is partly due to cultural practices and norms. The lifestyles and general social norms of men throughout time have left them with a higher likelihood of dying sooner.

Men are known to account for high numbers in occupations that put one at physical risks. Such as construction, the military, law enforcement, or firefighting.

Higher Suicide Rates

Men make up more than half of the suicide rate. Several factors have contributed to this. The main focus being societal pressures that have inhibited men from seeking help or being able to identify symptoms or indications that they need help.

Women are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, and more likely to attempt suicide, but men are more likely to go without diagnosis and succeed at attempts.

Higher Disease Rates

Men are 50% more likely to die from heart disease than women. This is in part due to lower estrogen levels, untreated blood pressure, and cholesterol issues. In addition, men are 1.5 more times likely to die from cancer and respiratory disease.

Improving Men’s Longevity

Increasing the years that men tend to live on average would need to be addressed in a variety of ways,  as the reasons that contribute to the statistics are diverse. It would require addressing several aspects of living and health.

All about Awareness

Changing these numbers can begin with awareness. It can be done by encouraging men on a large scale to integrate self-care into their routines and health practices. Educating men on how to care for themselves in terms of being cautious and actively managing their health is another way we can make a difference.

While this includes physical aspects like caring for the male body wear and tear as well as diet, a psychological impact must be made as well. Making men a part of the mental health conversation is just as important.

A Note from GR8NESS

Together, we can work to raise life expectancy, as well as the quality of life for all people. It’s not just about how long one lives, but how in general. Everyone deserves the chance to live to their highest potential, and that’s our focus here at GR8NESS.