Men 50 years and older may have a significantly higher risk of death than women of the same age group, partly due to heavier smoking and heart disease in men, according to a large study among people in 28 countries.
The study, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, found that the gap in mortality risk among men and women across countries varies.
Different cultural traditions, history and economies and societies influence how men and women experience life in different countries, thus influencing the general health status of men and women. The research kept these factors in mind during the study.
The data included more than 179,000 people in 28 countries and more than half of the participants – 55% – were women.
FINDINGS
The study found that men 50 years and older are at greater risk of death than women.
This can be partly explained by heavier smoking and heart disease in men.
The researchers noted that the findings are consistent with the literature on life expectancy and mortality rates.
RECOMMENDATIONS
The team recommends that public health policies take into account gender and gender differences and the impact of social and cultural factors on health.
(With input from PTI)
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