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Why Are the Majority of Centenarians Women?

United Nations data released in 2021 reveals that approximately 85% of individuals aged 100 and above are women.

12 November, 2025

Dr. Naushira Pandya, Professor and Chair of Geriatric Medicine at Nova Southeastern University (USA), suggests that while men tend to be healthier, women live longer. This disparity can be attributed to biological traits, as well as social and cultural factors.

Biological Factors

One key factor may be female hormones. Estrogen has been proven to offer numerous health benefits, from positive effects on blood vessels to promoting genes linked to antioxidants and longevity.

It’s also associated with anti-inflammatory effects, particularly during periods of heightened estrogen production, such as pregnancy. A 2020 study found that postmenopausal estrogen therapy was linked to increased longevity in older women.

Professor Pandya notes another contributing factor to women’s longer lifespan could be the slower aging of their immune systems.

Chromosomes may also play a role. A recent study published in *Science Advances* discovered that the second X chromosome in female mice may offer protective brain benefits as they age.

Illustration: Pexels

The “Grandmother Hypothesis”

Beyond hormonal factors, evolution may also contribute to women’s longevity. Some scientists endorse the “Grandmother Hypothesis,” suggesting women may have evolved to live longer post-reproductive lives to help raise grandchildren, enhancing survival odds and enabling their daughters to have more children.

Moti Gamburd, CEO of Care Homecare, observes, “Women nurture their children, care for their spouses, and elderly parents as if it’s their inherent duty. To instinctively fulfill this role, they prioritize their health. They visit doctors, take prescribed medications, and adopt habits that promote well-being.”

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle appears to play a significant role in longevity. Men are generally less likely to seek medical care than women. Women also tend to be more health-conscious and less prone to risky behaviors than men.

Dr. Evan Ciarloni, an internist specializing in geriatric medicine at Ochsner Rush Health, notes that men have higher rates of smoking, alcohol consumption, risky behaviors, and healthcare avoidance.

Ciarloni highlights that men are twice as likely to die in car accidents in the U.S. and four times more likely to be homicide victims. Suicide rates among men are approximately four times higher than in women.

Community Connections

Social connections significantly impact physical health, happiness, and longevity for both men and women. A lack of social connections has been shown to be as harmful to health as smoking 15 cigarettes daily.

Research indicates women are more likely to seek and nurture friendships and social relationships, which may widen the longevity gap. They are also more likely to turn to friends or family during stressful times.

Dr. Pandya points out that individuals in their 90s and even centenarians often have stronger support systems, more social connections, pursue meaningful activities, feel valued, and maintain a sense of humor.

Marilyn Gugliucci, Professor and Director of Geriatric Education at the University of New England, shares that a positive, proactive outlook on life, coupled with accepting one’s aging process, can help individuals “transcend their genetic limits.”

In her research on aging, Gugliucci emphasizes that a sense of purpose and resilience are key to longevity. While healthy eating and exercise contribute to well-being, one’s attitude toward aging and how they express it in daily life, relationships, and community are integral to a fulfilling life.

Researchers also note that regardless of age or gender, certain habits can help individuals become their healthiest selves and contribute to a longer life.

These habits include regular exercise, a balanced, healthy diet, adequate sleep, avoiding smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption. Other habits involve seeking and maintaining healthy relationships, fostering a positive outlook, and pursuing meaningful hobbies that bring joy.