A Japanese study investigating the effect of age-related changes to the immune system discovered this could contribute to the gap in life expectancy between men and women. Researchers found that the immune systems of men age faster then that of women.
The blood from 356 healthy men and women from the ages 20-90 was studied. White blood cells which interact with cells of the immune system to regulate the body’s response to disease, cytokines, were measured. As expected, it was found these decline with age.
However, it was also found the T-cells, which protect the body from infection, and B-cells which secret antibodies, decrease more rapidly in men as they age. This increases susceptibility to disease, ultimately lowering lifespan. Unhealthy, unregulated immune systems can also cause additional problems and diseases of their own.
Luckily, immune system cells which attack invaders, such as CD4 T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells increase
with age, especially in women. Professor Tom Kirkwood from the University of Newcastle argues women possess overall slower aging process then men, rather than simply having a slower immune aging process.
According to the Immunity and Aging Journal immune function can be used as an indication of biological age, making it an important indicator of overall health and well-being.
Through healthy living strategies a strong immune system, and overall better physical condition, can be
maintained throughout one’s life. Enjoying a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting enough sleep are just some of the ways personal well-being can be kept up. Little tasks, which the importance of is often ignored, such as getting enough exercise, preparing food safely, and washing one’s hands regularly, also protect the immune system when practiced regularly.
While such practicalities need to be addressed, keeping stress in check is also extremely important to one’s health (especially now, with final exams coming up!). Getting enough sleep, eating properly, and keeping a balance between school, work, volunteering, and relaxation can all help to keep stress at bay.