Women Are More Prone To Cancer, but Have Higher Survival Rate HDFC Life

Men and women differ from each other in many ways, starting from the organs in their bodies to the emotions they wear on their sleeves. Thus, even a disease like cancer that's more influenced by genetics, biology or even lifestyle habits, affect men and women differently, too.A statistical study by the World Health Organization depicts that cancer affected women more than it affected men; however, as per the World Cancer Report 2014, cancer annihilated more men than women.

Some type of cancers predominantly affects only one gender. The researchers removed certain cancers from their equation namely sex-specific cancers, such as prostate and cervical cancer, breast cancer which mainly affects women, although men too can get it and lung cancer which affects 8,000 more men than women each year. This particular gender gap is mysterious because theres no significant biological reason as to why men should be more susceptible to many types of cancer than women. What could perhaps be the cause?

The female sex hormone, Estrogen, which shields women from cardiovascular diseases, plays a vital role in curbing Cancer in women. Experts have pointed out two possible explanations as to why cancer acts biased on the basis of gender.

• The first explanation put forward is-

  Lifestyle. Men generally get more into the unhealthy ways like smoking and alcohol consumption, having an unhealthy diet and taking less exercise. But then, women too are overindulging into unhealthy habits that defy this theory.

• The second theory points finger at a deeper-

  Rooted issue with the male psyche the tendency to hide ones head in the sand when it comes to health matters. Women tend to have frequent contact with health professionals throughout their lives - when seeking professional help for menstrual disorders or during pregnancy, birth and child-rearing. This provides opportunities to discuss any worrying symptoms and to pick up information about cancer symptoms and its prevention. In case of men, they are not subjected to constant health check-ups, due to which the symptoms are difficult to detect. This theory thus justifies why cancer hits men hard than it does to women.

It is about the fight against cancer and not the fright. There is scope for negotiation in everything. An early detection, a healthier lifestyle, and regular checks can keep you informed and aware.

HDFC Life Cancer Policy can help you be financially prepared for the uncertainties of life like these and let your loved ones take care of you.

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