Scientific Explanation Why Men Are Higher Than Women

Illustration of women and men (Freepik/drobotean).

JAKARTA - Have you ever wondered why men are generally taller than women? On average, men are about 13 centimeters taller than women. This difference is consistent around the world and has long been the attention of scientists.

Although there is no definite answer yet, research shows a combination of genetics, hormones, and environmental factors are the main causes. This is the reason the average male is higher than female, as reported by the Live Science page on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

1. Role of Genetics

Height is strongly influenced by genetic factors. Everyone inherits a combination of genes from both parents and this gene determines many things, including height.

Research shows about 80 percent of height variations are caused by genetics, while the rest are influenced by environmental factors. One of the known genes that plays an important role in determining height is the SHOX gene, which is found in both sex chromosomes, namely X and Y.

Men (XY chromosomes) tend to have two copies of the SHOX gene that are active. While women (XX chromosomes) only have one active copy because one of the X chromodynamics is usually inactive. This is one of the main causes why men are taller than women.

In addition, recent studies have also shown that variations in the number of sex chromosomes can affect height. Those with additional Y chromodynamics tend to be higher than those with additional X chromodynamics.

2. Influence of Hormones

In addition to genetics, hormones also play a major role in the body's growth, especially during malnutrition. Some of the main hormones involved include:

Interestingly, estrogen actually has two roles. At the beginning of malnutrition, this hormone helps prolong bone and encourages high growth. However, as levels increase, estrogen actually causes the bone to coalesce and high growth stops.

As women experience a faster estrogen spike than men, their high growth stops early. This is one of the reasons men grew higher in the longer term.

3. Environmental Factors and Lifestyle

Although genes and hormones play a major role, environmental factors are equally important. Good nutritional intake, overall health, and the environment can affect growth.

For example, children who get adequate nutrition, especially protein, calcium, and vitamin D tend to grow higher than those who are malnourished.