Study Finds Social Factors Key to Health Differences Between Men and Women

NEW DELHI, May 13: A new study has revealed that the differences in health risks, symptoms, and outcomes between men and women are not driven solely by biological or genetic factors. Social and environmental influences, such as lifestyle and neighborhood conditions, play a significant role, according to researchers.

The study, led by scientists at Queen Mary University of London, examined data from 56,000 individuals and analyzed genetic links to nearly 6,000 proteins involved in various diseases. Surprisingly, researchers found that only about 100 of these proteins — a “very small” fraction — could be linked to sex-based differences in protein levels.

These findings suggest that while biology does influence health disparities between men and women, it does not account for the full picture. Social determinants of health, including where people live, how they work, and the habits they maintain, may have a much greater impact than previously thought.

“This study challenges the assumption that genetics alone determine sex-based health outcomes. It emphasizes the need to include social and environmental factors in both research and medical treatment,” said the lead researcher from Queen Mary University.

The study calls for a more holistic approach to healthcare that considers both biological and social influences when addressing gender-specific health challenges.