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Hindustan Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
4 ways 'women are physically stronger than men': Studies show they have higher pain tolerance...
A June 2 report by The Washington Post highlighted 'four things women's bodies do exceptionally well'. For instance, on average, women tend to live longer than men. The report compiled research suggesting women may have advantages in certain areas, such as pain tolerance, resilience, longevity, and immunity. Also read | Women outlive men; but in poorer health Quoted research – published in June 2024 on – suggested that athletes, in general, have higher pain tolerance than non-athletes. When it comes to sex differences, the report shared intriguing findings: female athletes have high pain tolerance, similar to their male counterparts. This suggests that experience and training might play a significant role in developing pain tolerance. Women athletes are more likely to continue playing through injuries, which could be attributed to a combination of biological and psychological factors, as per an August 2016 study published on Sophia Nimphius, pro-vice-chancellor of sport at Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia, was quoted as saying by The Washington Post that the difference in pain tolerance between male and female athletes might be due to both biological and experiential factors. These findings are supported by various studies, including a 1981 study published on that found female athletes had the highest pain tolerance and threshold. Women's longevity advantage is another fascinating topic discussed in the report. Research suggests that men tend to engage in riskier behaviours, contributing to shorter lifespans, while women generally have stronger immune systems and better survival rates for diseases, starvation, and injuries. The Y chromosome's potential degradation over time, known as mosaic loss of Y, might also play a role in men's health issues, such as increased risk of heart disease and cancer risk, as per a December 2024 study published on These findings highlight the complex interplay between biology and behaviour in determining longevity. Research published in August 2016 on confirmed that females, including humans, tend to have stronger immune systems than males, thanks to factors like estrogen and the XX chromosome advantage. Estrogen has been shown to enhance immune function and provide protection against certain infections. Reportedly, the presence of two X chromosomes in females may offer more variability in immune function, contributing to a more robust immune response. Research suggests women's bodies might be more resilient to the long-term effects of exercise. A British Heart Foundation study published in June 2022 found that female athletes had biologically younger vascular systems, reducing their risk of heart problems, while male athletes showed increased vascular ageing, raising their cardiovascular risk. More research is needed to understand these differences and their implications for long-term health. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
06-05-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Skip brushing your teeth twice daily? Here's how your mouth could be killing your heart
The mouth is far more than just the beginning of the digestive system – it plays a vital role in overall well-being. Did you know maintaining good oral health can prevent potential cardiovascular problems. A May 5 report from Study Finds discusses the link between oral health and heart disease. Also read | Don't brush your teeth before sleeping? Doctor explains why skipping brushing may do more harm than just risk cavities It highlights research suggesting that bacteria in the mouth can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. Studies have found a correlation between gum disease (periodontitis) and an increased risk of heart disease. The report added that once in the bloodstream, certain bacteria can attach to the endothelium, the inner lining of blood vessels. This disrupts the vascular barrier, making it easier for infection to spread throughout the body, including to vital organs. In extreme cases, this can lead to organ failure – or even death. A 2021 study published on found that people with periodontitis were up to twice as likely to develop coronary artery disease compared to those with healthy gums. Other studies point to a 'dose-response' effect: the more severe the gum disease, the greater the cardiovascular risk. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease caused by long-term plaque buildup and inadequate oral hygiene. Left untreated, plaque irritates and inflames gum tissue, eventually causing it to recede and deteriorate, the report added. Smoking, unhealthy diets, excessive alcohol consumption and diabetes all contribute to both poor oral health and heart disease. But did you know that bacteria from the mouth can cause inflammation in the body, which may contribute to the development of heart disease? In fact, chronic periodontitis triggers a prolonged immune response, increasing levels of key inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein and cytokines. These molecules can damage blood vessel linings and contribute to the development of atherosclerosis – a condition that narrows arteries, raises blood pressure and dramatically increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. According to the report, poor oral hygiene can also increase the risk of infective endocarditis (IE), a serious infection of the heart's inner lining or valves. This condition typically occurs when oral bacteria – especially from the streptococcus viridans group –enter the bloodstream and colonise damaged areas of the heart. Emerging research, published in 2024 on also suggests that oral hygiene may influence heart health through changes in the body's microbiome. Practicing good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing and flossing, can help reduce the risk of heart disease.
