Lecture Notes on Gender Longevity and Social Interaction

Gender Longevity Gap

• Women live 6-8 years longer than men in the developed world.
• 2015 "Lancet" study: Men in rich countries are twice as likely to die at any age compared to women.
• Exception: A blue zone in Sardinia, Italy, where men live as long as women.

Blue Zone in Sardinia

• Located in a remote mountainous area between Corsica and Tunisia.
• Six times more centenarians than the Italian mainland.
• Lifestyle accounts for 75% of longevity, with genes contributing 25%.
• Villagrande as the epicenter with tightly spaced houses fostering social interaction.

Social Cohesion and Longevity

• Social isolation is a current public health risk; contrast with Villagrande's social structure.
• Example of Giuseppe Murinu (102), who lived through wars and has a large family support.
• Social cohesion includes wariness of outsiders but also strong family and community ties.

Diet and Lifestyle

• Zia Teresa, a centenarian, makes high-fat local specialty pasta, culurgiones.
• Low-fat, gluten-free diets not necessary for longevity in this blue zone.

Scientific Insights

• Julianne Holt-Lunstad's research on lifestyle factors and longevity.
• Strong predictors of longevity include close relationships and social integration.
• Face-to-face interaction significantly impacts longevity more than online interactions.

Neuroscience of Social Interaction

• Face-to-face contact releases neurotransmitters like oxytocin and dopamine.
• Physical interaction stimulates brain areas related to social intelligence and emotional reward.
• Voice conveys intelligence and fosters stronger connections than text.

Gender Differences in Longevity

• Women prioritize face-to-face relationships more, contributing to longer lifespans.
• Evidence from baboon studies shows social bonds reduce stress and improve longevity.

Health Benefits of Social Interaction

• Social engagement lowers dementia rates.
• Women with strong social ties more likely to survive breast cancer.
• Men recovering from strokes benefit from regular social activities.

Building Social Connections

• Social integration is essential for health and longevity.
• Building "villages" through in-person interaction enhances well-being.

Digital Interaction

• Emerging data on the benefits and limitations of digital interactions.
• Improvements needed in technology design to mimic eye contact and foster connection.

Conclusion

• Emphasizing the biological imperative of social belonging and in-person interaction for a healthy, long life.