Gender equality and the gender gap in life expectancy in Germany

Abstract

Background: The gender gap in life expectancy is documented worldwide with lower life expectancy in male new-borns. International studies have shown that the gender gap in life expectancy varies markedly with gender inequality. Objectives: The paper addresses the questions: (1) whether there are life-expectancy differences between the federal states and whether the extent of gender equality at federal level is associated with (2) gender differences in life expectancy and (3) the life expectancy of women and men. Materials and methods: The Gender Inequality Index (GII) developed by the United Nations Development Project was calculated using data from the federal states. Using linear regressions, GII was associated with the gender gap in life expectancy as well as with life expectancy in males and females. Results: The GII varies between 0.065 (Bavaria) and 0.117 (Mecklenburg-Vorpommern) and the gender gap in life expectancy differs by almost two years within Germany. We found a correlation between the gender difference in life expectancy and GII (R2 linear = 0.848) as well as between GII and life expectancy of male (R2 linear = 0.700), but not female newborns (R2 linear = 0.102). The association remains if GDP is taken into account as an indicator of economic power. Conclusions: Gender equality seems to be positively related to the life expectancy of men. This can be explained by the reduced importance of male gender stereotypes and associated risk behaviors. The requirements for gender-differentiated interventions formulated in the Prevention Act (Präventionsgesetz) are highly significant.