FEMALES OUTLIVE MALES

Scientists believe that the key to why women live longer than men is gene mutation. DNA mutations in the mitochondria of men account largely for the differences in life expectancy between men and women. Mitochondria are cell organelles that provide the energy needed for cellular function. With the exception of red blood cells, all cellshave mitochondria. Mitochondria have their own DNA, ribosomes, and can make their own proteins. Mutations in mitochondrial DNA were found to increase the rate at which males age, thus lowering their life expectancy. These same mutations in females however, do not influence aging.

Why Women Live Longer Than Men

• The chief reason women typically outlive men is due to differences in genetic make-up between the two.
• Male mitochondrial DNA mutations increase the rate at which males age. However, these same mutations in females do not influence aging.
• Dual X sex chromosomes provide protection for women against X chromosome gene mutations. These mutations are always expressed in males because they only have one X chromosome.
• The female hormone estrogen provides protection for women against cardiovascular related diseases.
• Immune system function declines more slowly in women than in men.
• Men are more likely than women to be involved in dangerous activities and take greater health risks than women