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Does the sex ratio at sexual maturity affect men's later-life mortality risks? Evidence from historical China

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  • Zang, Emma
  • Zheng, Hui

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between the male-to-female sex ratio (measured as the proportion male) at sexual maturity and later-life mortality risks in the context of pre-industrial northeast China, using registration data from the Qing Dynasty. We find that a higher male-to-female sex ratio at sexual maturity is associated with a higher later-life mortality risk among men. This association is likely due to the long-term adverse consequences of stress caused by low mate availability at sexual maturity. We further find that a high sex ratio at sexual maturity mitigates the health benefits of marriage and exacerbates the health disadvantages of holding an official position in Qing China.

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  • Zang, Emma & Zheng, Hui, 2018. "Does the sex ratio at sexual maturity affect men's later-life mortality risks? Evidence from historical China," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 202(C), pages 61-69.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:socmed:v:202:y:2018:i:c:p:61-69
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2018.02.024
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