Re-Examining the Gender Gap in Life Expectancy: a Cross Country Analysis
Comfort F. Ricketts

Abstract
Objective: We revisit the analysis of the gender gap in life expectancy with an emphasis on labor force participation rate in addition to other demographic, economic, and health related factors that may influence life expectancy. Method: We use data from the World Development Indicators, as well as 2SLS with time fixed effects to account for possible simultaneity. Result: We find that increasing female labor force participation rate in high income Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries is positively related to the narrowing life expectancy gender gap among OECD countries. Conclusion: The findings support the notion that male – female competition and gender equality has health consequences for both males and females especially when the level of country development or income is considered. A variety of other factors also influence life expectancy across countries categorized by their levels of development and income. These factors are identified and discussed.

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