Why do women live longer than men?

In most countries when you look at their population structure and their life expectancy figures, the evidence is quite plain to see - women are generally living longer than men!

85% of people who live over 100 years of age are women! 

In Europe, the average life expectancy is 80 for women and only 72.5 for men. But why such a big difference? Can you think of any ideas? Have a read through these two articles (particularly Year 11 and 12 who are or will be studying this) to see what the experts think.

TIME MAGAZINE: Why do women live longer than men?

BBC NEWS: European Men lag behind women in life expectancy