Why men live less than women: not only biology, but also the habit of endurance

Men in almost every country in the world live less than women. According to global estimates, the difference is about five years: In 2021, the average life expectancy for men was 68.4 yearsand women – 73.8 years.

This gap cannot be explained by one reason. Here they mix biological featureshigher risk of cardiovascular disease and injury, smoking, alcohol, hazardous occupations, mental health and attitudes towards prevention. Research shows that men are more likely to experience causes of death that lead to premature death, while women live longer on average but often spend more years with chronic illnesses.

Global gap in life expectancy between men and women confirmed by data Our World in Databased on international mortality and life expectancy statistics.

Not just genetics: men are more likely to die from preventable causes

Men have a higher mortality rate from cardiovascular diseasesinjuries, motor vehicle accidents, overdoses, some types of cancer and suicide. On average, they are also more likely to smoke, drink heavily, and delay treatment for chronic illnesses.

Review published in PubMed Centralemphasizes: the mortality gap is associated both with biological differences and with behavior, working conditions, income levels, access to medicine and lifestyle.

Biology matters too. Female sex hormones before menopause can have a certain protective effect on the vascular system, and the presence of two X chromosomes is considered as one of the possible factors of genetic resistance. But it would be too convenient to reduce everything to testosterone or genes: Much of the difference has to do with how men live, work, take risks, and heal.

“I’ll be patient” often costs more than an examination

One of the most noticeable problems is the habit of seeking help only when symptoms are already interfering with work, sleep or living a normal life. A Cleveland Clinic survey found that 72% men would rather do household chores, such as cleaning or mowing the lawn, than make an appointment with the doctor. Another part of the participants admitted that they do not always fully tell the doctor about their complaints.

This is not a diagnosis for the entire male population, but the results of an American survey. But the trend is recognizable far beyond the US: fear of hearing a bad diagnosis, embarrassment, lack of time and the idea that “a real man doesn’t complain” really delays seeking help. More information about the survey can be found on the page Cleveland Clinic.

Symptoms that should not be attributed to age

Fatigue, weight gain, low energy, or trouble sleeping don’t always mean just “getting older.” Sometimes they are behind high blood pressurediabetes, thyroid disorders, depression, iron deficiency, heart disease, sleep apnea, or medication side effects.

It is especially important not to ignore changes in urinationblood in the urine or stool, persistent pain, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath, chest pain, severe daytime sleepiness and a sharp deterioration in physical endurance.

Deserves special attention erectile dysfunction. It doesn’t always mean heart disease, but it can be an early warning sign of problems with circulation and vascular health. They write about it Mayo Clinic And Harvard Health.

Sleep, snoring and daytime fatigue

Men often underestimate chronic snoring and constant sleepiness. But loud snoring with pauses in breathing, morning headaches, irritability and falling asleep during the day may be a sign obstructive sleep apnea.

Apnea is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular problems, and accidents due to drowsiness. This is not a reason to diagnose yourself based on what your spouse tells you, but it is a reason to discuss your symptoms with your doctor and, if necessary, undergo a sleep test.

What tests really make sense?

There is no universal set of tests that all men without exception need to undergo annually. Age, heredity, weight, blood pressure, medications, smoking and family history change recommendations. But basic prevention usually includes:

• blood pressure – regularly, even if nothing hurts;
• cholesterol and cardiovascular risk assessment — by age and risk factors;
• sugar level – especially if you are overweight, have high blood pressure or have a family history of diabetes;
• weight and waist circumference assessment — not for the sake of aesthetics, but to assess metabolic risk;
• bowel cancer screening – usually starting from the age of 45, but the timing is determined by the doctor taking into account the risk;
• prostate health discussion – especially if there are symptoms or family history;
• sleep assessment – with loud snoring, respiratory arrest and chronic daytime sleepiness;
• mental health — Anxiety, depression, irritability and sleep problems also require attention.

What about testosterone?

Testosterone levels may indeed decline with age, however Not all fatigue means low testosterone. Symptoms may be related to excess weight, sleep apnea, depression, alcohol, diabetes, chronic illness and a number of medications.

It is wise to discuss hormonal tests with your doctor if there is a combination of persistent symptoms, and not take them “just in case” after a particularly difficult Monday. Testosterone treatment without a proven deficiency may have risks and should be prescribed on an individual basis.

Main

Men live less than women not because “this is how nature works” and nothing can be changed. Biological differences exist, but much of the risk comes from things that can be controlled: blood pressure, smoking, alcohol, sleep, weight, movement, stress, and prompt medical attention.

Prevention does not make a person weaker. It simply reduces the chance of finding out about a serious illness even when the body has decided to stop diplomatic negotiations and move on to ultimatums.

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