Across the world, women live longer than men, on average by as much as five to seven years.
In Nigeria, too, women tend to outlive men, and this gap has real consequences for families, healthcare systems, and the economy.
But why does this difference exist? The reasons are not just about luck or chance; they cut across biology, lifestyle, and even cultural expectations.
Let’s break down the key factors that explain why women generally outlive men.
Biological Differences
One major reason women outlive men lies in biology. The body’s design and natural defenses give women certain advantages:
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Genetics: Women have two X chromosomes, which means if one carries a faulty gene, the other can often compensate. Men, with only one X chromosome, don’t have that backup.
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Immunity: Women generally mount stronger immune responses, which helps them fight off infections more effectively.
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These biological factors create a foundation for women’s longer life expectancy, but habits and lifestyle choices also play a significant role.
These biological factors give women a natural head start in the race for longevity.
Next, let’s examine how lifestyle and daily habits exacerbate this gap even further.
Lifestyle & Behavior
How men and women live their lives also plays a big role in the gap. Men are more likely to engage in habits that cut life short:
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Risk-taking habits: Men are more likely to drive recklessly, abuse alcohol, or get involved in violence, which increases early death risks.
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Healthcare use: Women often seek medical care earlier, while men tend to delay until their illness becomes severe. This late response can worsen outcomes.
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Smoking and alcohol: Higher rates among men contribute to heart disease, liver problems, and some cancers.
In short, lifestyle choices add to the gap, but society and environment also play their part.
Social, Environmental, and Cultural Factors
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Workplace risks: Men are often the ones working in high-risk jobs, such as construction, mining, or long-distance driving. These jobs expose them to a higher risk of accidents and long-term health issues.
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Stress and masculinity norms: Society tends to expect men to “tough it out” and not show weakness. Because of this, many men hide their stress, avoid seeking help, and end up struggling with untreated mental health challenges.
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Social support networks: Women tend to maintain stronger connections with friends, family, or community groups. These support systems provide comfort, reduce stress, and even improve recovery when illness strikes.
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Access and inequality: While men may often have more control over financial resources, they tend to visit hospitals less. Women, on the other hand, are more likely to prioritize their own health and that of their children, which contributes to their survival advantage.
These cultural and environmental factors work in tandem with biology and lifestyle, shaping life expectancy in significant ways.
Diseases and Causes of Death
These health patterns explain why men’s life expectancy is cut shorter, even when living in the same environments as women.
Variation Over Age and Life Stages
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Infancy and childhood: Even at birth, baby girls often survive harsh conditions better than baby boys.
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Reproductive years: During their childbearing years, women benefit from estrogen’s protective effects against heart disease and other conditions.
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After menopause: Once estrogen levels drop, women’s risks for chronic diseases rise, and the gap between men and women begins to narrow, though women still often live longer overall.
Life expectancy differences aren’t static; they change at each stage of life, shaped by both biology and environment.
Conclusion
The gap in life expectancy between women and men isn’t fixed; it can be influenced by choices, policies, and awareness.
Men, in particular, have much to gain from paying more attention to their health, breaking harmful norms, and seeking timely care.
Creating healthier environments at home, in the workplace, and in society can help close the gap and improve well-being for everyone.
What do you think?
Why do you believe women outlive men in our society, and what changes do you feel could make a difference in Nigeria? Share your thoughts, I’d love to hear from you.
Researched by Victoria Odueso
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