An increasing body of evidence points to the fact that men, who are prone to riskier behaviours such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, may have a shorter lifespan than women.
This phenomenon is not confined to Malaysia but is observed globally, including in the wider ASEAN region. Many studies done in the U.S showed the similar trend. Data from the Statistics Department in 2023 revealed that the average lifespan for Malaysian men is 72.5 years, while women enjoy a longer average lifespan of 77.4 years.
Over the past few years, trends have shown slight fluctuations in the lifespan of men. In 2019, the average was 72.5 years, which dipped to 71.8 in 2021 before stabilising back to 72.5 in 2023. On the other hand, women’s average lifespan has remained relatively stable, standing at 77.4 years in 2019, dipping slightly to 76.5 in 2021, and rebounding to 77.4 in 2023. These disparities raise concerns regarding their underlying causes and implications for public health and healthcare policies.
Expert suggests that biological factors are key contributors to these disparities. Women naturally produce oestrogen, a hormone that provides significant protection against cardiovascular disease – a leading cause of death among men. Conversely, elevated testosterone levels in men have been associated with increased risks of certain diseases such as prostate cancer and aggression-related incidents, which can impact life expectancy in cases of violence.
World Bank data underscores the behavioural differences between genders that contribute to this disparity. Men are nearly twice as likely to binge drink and are more prone to smoking, heightening their susceptibility to diseases such as cancer and thereby shortening their lifespan. This pattern of risky behaviour is a significant factor in the discrepancy between male and female life expectancy.
Another critical aspect highlighted by experts is the difference in healthcare service utilisation between genders. Women tend to access a broader range of health services, particularly those related to reproductive health. Regular attendance at antenatal and postnatal care clinics plays a significant role in contributing to their longer lifespan. This greater engagement with healthcare services ensures that women address health issues more promptly and maintain better overall health.
Addressing this disparity in life expectancy requires a multifaceted approach. Experts emphasise the importance of tackling non-communicable diseases and reducing negative lifestyle behaviours among men. Collaborating with general practitioners to implement workplace health services and improving access to male-centric healthcare is crucial in mitigating this disparity.
Awareness campaigns and promoting proper self-care practices among men are essential components of this strategy. Comprehensive public health interventions are urgently needed, necessitating collaboration among policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities. By addressing these issues, the country can strive towards achieving greater equality in life expectancy and enhancing the overall health and well-being of the population.
The implications of these findings extend beyond individual health outcomes to broader societal impacts. Shorter lifespans among men can result in economic losses due to reduced workforce participation and productivity. Additionally, the burden on healthcare systems may increase as men succumb to preventable diseases at younger ages.
To address these challenges, public health policies must prioritise preventive measures and early interventions. Encouraging healthier lifestyles through education and community programmes can play a pivotal role in changing behaviour patterns. Providing support for smoking cessation and alcohol abuse programmes can help reduce the prevalence of these risky behaviours among men.
Furthermore, healthcare providers need to be proactive in engaging men in regular health check-ups and screenings. Early detection and management of health conditions can significantly improve outcomes and extend life expectancy. Tailoring healthcare services to meet the specific needs of men can encourage greater utilisation and adherence to medical advice.
Policymakers must also consider the social determinants of health that contribute to these disparities. Factors such as socio-economic status, education, and access to healthcare services play a crucial role in shaping health outcomes. Addressing inequalities in these areas can help bridge the gap between male and female life expectancy.
The disparity in life expectancy between men and women is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Biological differences, behavioural patterns, healthcare utilisation, and social determinants all play a role in shaping these outcomes. Addressing this disparity requires a comprehensive approach that includes public health interventions, policy changes, and community engagement.
By prioritising preventive measures, promoting healthier lifestyles, and improving access to healthcare services for men, we can work towards achieving greater equality in life expectancy. The collaboration between policymakers, healthcare providers, and communities is essential in creating a healthier future for all individuals.
