Do lifestyle factors contribute to gender disparities in cancer?
Yes, lifestyle factors significantly contribute to gender disparities in cancer. Men and women often have different smoking rates, alcohol consumption patterns, occupational exposures, and dietary habits, all of which can influence cancer risk. For example, men are more likely to smoke and consume alcohol, increasing their risk for lung and liver cancers. Women, on the other hand, may be more affected by reproductive factors, such as the use of hormonal contraceptives, which can influence the risk of certain cancers.