Study finds link between sex deficit and increased risk of death in women

Numerous scientific papers and demographic data have repeatedly confirmed that people with less frequent sexual activity live shorter lives. Sex helps reduce stress and improve mood by releasing endorphins and oxytocin. It also boosts the immune system, increasing resistance to infection and disease.

Regular sexual activity has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system and improves sleep quality due to the relaxation-related hormone prolactin. Frequent sex also increases intimacy between partners, promoting overall emotional well-being.

Thestudy, published in the Journal of Psychosexual Health, was conducted by experts from Walden University.

They analysed data collected as part of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2010. The programme assesses the health and nutrition of US residents and includes a physiological study and surveys.

The sample included 14,542 U.S. adults 20 to 59 years old, half of whom were women. Their data was compared to records from the National Death Registry through the end of 2015. The researchers also looked at information on depression, sexual activity, presence of obesity and other demographic data.

It turned out that nearly 95 per cent of respondents had sex more than 12 times in the past 12 months, and 38 per cent had sex more than 52 times in a year (more than once a week). Younger respondents tended to report higher sexual activity.

The analysis showed that women with low sexual frequency had a 70% higher risk of death than those who were more sexually active. No such correlation was found in men.

After accounting for frequency of sex and the presence of depression, it was found that depressed people who rarely had sex were 197% more likely to die prematurely than depressed but sexually active participants.

Data from blood tests showed that sex-deficient respondents were more likely to have elevated levels of C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation. Those who had frequent sex were more likely to be black, while low sexual activity was more common among Hispanic and white participants.

It's important to note that while a correlation was found, the study did not establish causation. People with poor health may be less likely to have sex. The study authors recommend that quality and satisfaction with sexual relationships be considered in future studies to better understand the issue.