Why do females actually live longer?

  • Thread starter Crazy Tosser
  • Start date
In summary, women on average outlive men by about 5.4 years. This is likely due to a combination of genetics, evolution, and recent society.
  • #1
Crazy Tosser
182
0
I see girls/women on this forum already posting so many topics about terrible things that go on in the world and express excessive empathy to everything and everyone and feel terrible if someone/something else feels terrible you would expect them to die from a nervous breakdown when they are 25.

Any ideas why women actually live longer, on average?
 
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  • #2
They don't have wives
 
  • #3
Maybe because the X has four lines and a Y three...
 
  • #4
mgb_phys said:
They don't have wives

I think you might be on to something.
 
  • #5
Cause deep inside we are a lioness, hear us roar !

fiercewhitelioness.jpg
 
  • #6
mgb_phys said:
They don't have wives

No arguments here, you hit the mark! :approve:
 
  • #7
They drive less than men.
 
  • #8
In order to make a person's life miserable on a daily basis one must outlive said person by at least one day.
 
  • #9
In the beginning God asked man and woman if they had any requests. Man said "I would gladly give up 10 years of my life if that life was spent with a lovely woman to love."
Woman said, "I want those extra 10 years if I got to put up with him."
 
  • #10
So they can always have the last word.
 
  • #11
Damn, those are three gems right there. I think women will outlive me because I put so much of myself into making jokes for the people of PF to not only enjoy, but share with loved ones as well.
 
  • #12
mgb_phys said:
They don't have wives

In Norway, they do.
 
  • #13
Seriously speaking, I have read about the research done somewhere in Scandinavia (was it Sweden?). They browsed old census registers (or church books, or something similar). Most of the country was inhabiteted by people living in separate households, so many other factors were automatically eliminated. What they found was that those families living with Gradmothers had - on average - more surviving kids. That hints at simple biological/evolutionary explanation.

Somehow I can't google it right now.
 
  • #14
In my family, the males outlive the females by atleast 10 years. Both sides. So this female thing never really applied to me.
 
  • #15
mgb_phys said:
They don't have wives

hypatia said:
Cause deep inside we are a lioness, hear us roar !

fiercewhitelioness.jpg

Ask a male a question, a nice, coherent and concise answer.

Ask a woman a question, and bandwidth exceeeded.

(No, no typo, I mean really, really exceeeeded).
 
  • #16
BobG said:
Ask a male a question, a nice, coherent and concise answer.

Ask a woman a question, and bandwidth exceeeded.

(No, no typo, I mean really, really exceeeeded).

Ladies and gentlemen, PhysicsForums presents a nice and concise answer to the topic's question! [applaud]
[back to the topic]
But I am pretty sure that women on average outlive even single men, how is that possible?
 
  • #17
Crazy Tosser said:
Ladies and gentlemen, PhysicsForums presents a nice and concise answer to the topic's question! [applaud]



[back to the topic]
But I am pretty sure that women on average outlive even single men, how is that possible?

Well...it's because we are just awesome like that!
Simple answer.
 
  • #18
Crazy Tosser said:
[back to the topic]
But I am pretty sure that women on average outlive even single men, how is that possible?
Genetics - men have half a chromosome less and suffer higher pre-natal and infant mortality so that although slightly more males are conceived about equal numbers survive childhood.

Evolution - males compete with other males for females. So it's in his genes best interest to have a strong youth that can fight off other males. If he dies younger after the genes don't care, they have already made lots of copies.

In more recent times war and manual/dangerous jobs have taken a toll on men. This is changing in most developed countries and the survival gap is being reduced.
Now society has an appreciable effect, suicide among teenage boys is much higher, but smoking is rising faster among teenage girls.
 
  • #19

FAQ: Why do females actually live longer?

Why do females tend to live longer than males?

Females have a longer life expectancy compared to males due to a combination of biological, environmental, and social factors. One factor is that females have two copies of the X chromosome, while males only have one. This means that females have a backup copy of important genes, providing protection against certain genetic diseases. Additionally, females tend to engage in healthier behaviors and seek medical care more regularly, leading to better overall health and longevity.

Is there a genetic reason for females having a longer lifespan?

While there is no single gene responsible for the gender disparity in life expectancy, there are several genetic factors that may contribute. As mentioned before, females have two X chromosomes, providing extra genetic material. Additionally, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone may play a role in protecting against certain diseases and promoting longevity.

Do lifestyle choices affect the life expectancy of females?

Yes, lifestyle choices can have a significant impact on the life expectancy of females. Engaging in healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding harmful substances like tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption can increase longevity. Additionally, females may face unique health challenges such as pregnancy and menopause, and taking care of their bodies can help mitigate these risks.

Are there cultural or societal factors that contribute to the gender gap in life expectancy?

Yes, cultural and societal factors can also play a role in the gender gap in life expectancy. Historically, societal norms have placed more pressure on males to engage in risky behaviors and take on dangerous jobs. This, combined with the stigma surrounding men seeking medical care, may contribute to lower life expectancy in males. Furthermore, gender inequality in access to education and healthcare can also impact the health and longevity of females in certain cultures.

Does the life expectancy gap between males and females vary by country?

Yes, the life expectancy gap between males and females varies by country. In developed countries, the gap is typically smaller due to better overall access to healthcare and more equal opportunities for both genders. However, in developing countries, where there may be cultural and societal barriers for females, the gap tends to be wider. These disparities highlight the importance of addressing gender inequality and promoting health for all individuals, regardless of gender.

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