A local research team has found that eunuchs of the Joseon Dynasty lived longer than non-castrated men of that era.

The team led by Professor Min Kyung-jin of Inha University analyzed genealogy records of Joseon Dynasty eunuchs and found that such eunuchs lived at least 14 more years than non-castrated men of similar socio-economic status of that time.

The team found that 81 eunuchs who lived between the 16th and 19th century lived an average of 70 years.

The team said its study supports the idea that male sex hormones decrease men's lifespan.

Male hormones are said to cause heart diseases and lower immune systems. Related studies have proven that castration of male animals extends life expectancy.

The team’s latest research was published in the scientific journal, Current Biology.