Why Women May Live Longer Than Men
It's well known that women live, on average, five to 10 years longer than men. But why? While scientists have long believed differences in lifestyle was one reason why, new research has found that something else may be working in women's favor: the X chromosome.
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Published in BioEssays, the research hones in on microRNA, which are tiny strains of ribonucleic acid that tell our genes what to do or not do. After mapping out all of the microRNA in both humans and mice, researchers learned that these tiny stains play a large role in the immune system's ability to ward off infections and cancer.
Because much of this microRNA is found on the X chromosome - and because women have two X chromosomes while men have one X and one Y chromosome - researchers say women may simply be genetically programmed to be healthier. Talk about girl power!
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While much more research is needed, it's pretty exciting and interesting stuff. The authors are using the study as a way to highlight just how important genetics are to our health. They don't control everything, but they certainly influence our lives in so many ways.
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