Men from mitochondria, women from telomeres: Ageing was never meant to be equal
April 28, 2025
Mitochondria empower women with efficient energy production and longevity, supporting future generations, while men face faster ageing and increased risks of heart disease and stroke.
Ageing is often viewed as the great equalizer—an inevitable process that affects everyone in the same way. However, the reality is far more complex. From the moment we are born, ageing diverges into two distinct paths influenced by biological, social, and environmental factors.
The biological foundations of ageing Dr Saher Mehdi, a longevity scientist and biotech consultant, highlights key differences between men and women in the ageing process. “Mitochondria, the engines of our cells, work better in women. They generate energy more efficiently and produce fewer free radicals. That’s not just a bonus; it’s an evolutionary strategy. Women need to last longer—for children, for tribes, for species survival.” In addition to mitochondrial advantages, women benefit from longer-lasting telomeres, the protective caps on DNA that erode more slowly, particularly before menopause. This longevity is largely due to the protective effects of estrogen. However, this advantage can come at a cost. Unequal outcomes in ageing As women age, they often face a unique set of challenges. While they may live longer, they also spend more years grappling with osteoporosis, autoimmune disorders, and frailty. Men, on the other hand, tend to age faster and have a higher risk of dying sooner, particularly from heart disease and stroke. Yet, ageing is not solely a biological phenomenon; it is deeply intertwined with social and political factors. For instance, women raised in sexist societies experience up to nine additional years of cognitive decline by the age of 65, a stark reminder that societal inequities have tangible impacts on health. This isn’t merely a metaphor; it’s a stark reality of neurodegeneration exacerbated by inequality. The intergenerational impact of ageing The effects of stress, trauma, and malnutrition can be passed down through generations via epigenetic changes. What your grandmother endured may still resonate within your cells, manifesting differently in boys and girls. This highlights that ageing is not just a linear process; it is influenced by hormones, epigenetics, and the socio-political landscape. A call to action So, what can we do moving forward? For women: Menopause support is not a luxury; it’s a public health imperative. It’s crucial to invest in heart, bone, and brain health to ensure a healthier ageing process. For men: Emotional expression should not be viewed as a weakness; it’s a vital survival skill. Combatting post-retirement isolation is essential—build connections and foster open conversations. For everyone: Prioritize sleep, engage in regular physical activity, and maintain a curious mindset. Staying connected with your community remains one of the most effective anti-ageing interventions available. We don’t merely inherit the clock of ageing; we actively shape it through our biology, cultural practices, and the systems we create or dismantle. The real question As we navigate the complexities of ageing, we must ask ourselves: Which aspects of our biology are we still pretending aren’t influenced by epigenetics? |
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