Abstract

Life expectancy is an important indicator in assessing the health status of a community and is part of the Human Development Index. Globally, women have a higher life expectancy than men. Data shows that in 2025, the average life expectancy for women will reach 76.2 years, while for men it will be 70.9 years. In Indonesia, the Central Statistics Agency (BPS) records the life expectancy of women at around 74.21 years and men at 70.32 years. This paper examines the differences in life expectancy between men and women and identifies the factors causing these differences. This study is a literature review. The results indicate that biological factors such as immune system strength and estrogen hormones only partially explain these differences. Socially constructed gender roles, such as pressure to conform to masculinity, risky lifestyles, and limited access to healthcare services for men are the main causes. Women are more likely to undergo preventive health checkups, while men tend to avoid healthcare services until chronic conditions arise. Social norms also create different pressures that impact stress and mental health. Thus, the difference in life expectancy between men and women is the result of a complex interaction between biological, social, economic, and behavioral factors.