Why do women have a higher life expectancy than men?
Statistically women are expected to live, on average, four years longer than men. The traditional argument is that men take more risks. This idea has arisen from studies that show men are more likely to die in car accidents, and generally tend to smoke and drink more.
Some scientists argue that genetics may have a part to play – men have an X and Y chromosome, whereas women have two X chromosomes. This means if there is a defective gene in X chromosomes, then women will have a non-defective copy of that gene in the other X chromosome, which can be used instead
Find the answer to more baffling questions by subscribing to How It Works magazine today!
Learn more:
How do we know lions and many other mammals are colour blind?
