In France, women live on average 6 years longer than men. Their life expectancy is 84.9 years compared to 78.5 years for men. A difference that could be explained by differences in the immune system according to a Japanese study published in the journal Immunity and Aging.
This study focused on the observation of 365 Japanese aged 20 to 90 whose blood was analyzed.
Researchers have proven that women’s immune systems age less quickly than men’s. They found that the number of white blood cells (lymphocytes that fight infections) decreased over time. However, in women, these lymphocytes disappear less quickly and can even increase as she ages.
In addition, the director of the study, Professor Katsuiku Hirokawa, explains another factor of longevity in women: “They have more estrogen protecting them from cardiovascular disease until menopause”.
However, it should not be forgotten that the gap in life expectancy between men and women continues to narrow. In question in particular, tobacco, alcohol, obesity and professional activity because the behaviors between the two sexes are more and more similar.
