Affiliate & partner disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, and I may earn a commission if you buy through them at no extra cost to you. As an authorised LifeWave Brand Partner, I have a financial interest in promoting LifeWave products. Testimonial/editorial given by a LifeWave brand partner with financial interest in promoting the product. Full disclosure at the end.
A note before we start. This article covers general research on sex differences in ageing. It is not medical advice. LifeWave X39 is a non-transdermal, general-wellness phototherapy patch that gently stimulates the skin with light to support the body’s natural energy flow for strength and stamina. It is not a treatment for ageing, hormonal decline or any condition.
The numbers are not flattering for men
Women outlive men in almost every country. In Ireland the gap is a few years; in the US it’s larger, at around five years. Men also tend to develop heart disease earlier. Studies suggest men, on average, show faster epigenetic ageing and shorter telomeres than women of the same age. The question isn’t really whether men age faster on average — it’s why, and what’s within our control.
I’m Dave, founder of Simply Younger, and I’m 50. This one is personal.
Key takeaways
- On average, men have shorter telomeres than women; oestrogen may be part of the reason.
- Several studies find men show faster epigenetic ageing.
- Testosterone declines gradually in men, unlike the more abrupt change of menopause.
- Men tend to carry more visceral fat and higher inflammation, and engage less with preventive healthcare.
- Much of the gap is modifiable through lifestyle and getting regular check-ups.
What makes men more vulnerable?
Telomeres. Men tend to have shorter telomeres than women. Oestrogen appears to support telomerase, the enzyme that maintains them, though telomere length is just one of many factors in ageing.
Epigenetic ageing. Studies using epigenetic clocks have generally found men’s estimated biological age runs a little ahead of women’s at the same chronological age.
Inflammation and body fat. Men tend to store more visceral fat — the belly fat around the organs that releases inflammatory signals — and on average carry higher inflammatory markers than premenopausal women. That contributes to inflammaging and heart risk.
Hormones. Testosterone declines gradually — roughly 1% a year from middle age on average — so many men don’t notice the cumulative effect. Women go through menopause as a more defined transition. If you have symptoms of low testosterone, see your doctor for proper testing.
Behaviour. Men are less likely to see a doctor for prevention, and more likely to smoke, drink heavily and have fewer social supports — all linked to poorer ageing. This might be the biggest lever of all.
Can men close the gap?
Much of it, yes. Men who exercise consistently, keep a healthy waistline, don’t smoke, drink moderately, sleep well and get regular check-ups have far better odds. The gap is a starting position, not a sentence.
My own response: lifting every second day with the RP Hypertrophy app, 10,000+ steps daily, cold plunge, sauna and steam most days, ten PerfectAmino tablets and 10g of creatine daily, omega-3 and vitamin D, magnesium before bed, and a monthly Hume Body Pod scan to keep an eye on body composition. And the one I’d push hardest for every man reading: book the check-up.
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Join free →Where does X39 fit? Not in this story. Separately, I wear an X39 patch daily as a general-wellness habit. LifeWave X39 is a non-transdermal, general-wellness phototherapy patch that gently stimulates the skin with light to support the body’s natural energy flow for strength and stamina. It is not a treatment for ageing, hormonal decline or any condition discussed above.
As an authorised LifeWave Brand Partner I have a financial interest in promoting it.
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Frequently asked questions
Do men really age faster than women?
On average, men have shorter lifespans and several studies find faster biological ageing markers. The causes are biological and behavioural, and much is modifiable.
Why do women live longer than men?
Likely a mix of hormones (oestrogen appears protective for the heart), genetics, and behaviour — women tend to smoke and drink less and see doctors more.
Can men close the ageing gap?
Men can’t change their chromosomes, but exercise, a healthy waistline, not smoking, moderate drinking, good sleep and regular check-ups make a big difference.
Does testosterone decline cause faster ageing?
It contributes to muscle and bone loss and metabolic changes, but it’s one factor among many. Get tested by your doctor if you have symptoms.
What is the best thing a man can do to age well?
Lift weights, move every day, keep your waistline in check, don’t smoke — and see your doctor regularly.
Does X39 help men age more slowly?
No such claim is made. X39 is a non-transdermal, general-wellness phototherapy patch that gently stimulates the skin with light to support the body’s natural energy flow for strength and stamina. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Related reading
What Happens to Your Body at 40 · Stem Cells and Testosterone · Telomere Length · Epigenetic Ageing · Inflammaging Explained · The 10 Hallmarks of Ageing
Full disclosure. This article is general wellness education and is not medical advice. LifeWave X39 is a non-transdermal, general-wellness phototherapy patch and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. As an authorised LifeWave Brand Partner, I have a financial interest in promoting LifeWave products. Links to PerfectAmino and Hume Health are affiliate links. Always consult a qualified professional about your individual health.
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