A man can care for his beloved family, his favourite car, or a gadget without hesitation and amongst all this, his health takes a backseat. What do you think? On this Men’s Day, you can change that by putting your own health first and becoming aware of health issues that can improve your well-being.
Some men struggle to maintain their mental and physical health, which may lead them to forego routine examinations and tests that may help them live long, healthy lives. Men who do not take their mental and physical health seriously may acquire major health problems. According to the CDC, the “medical gender gap” and its repercussions are genuine, with males dying roughly five years earlier than women on average.
The good news is that you can take charge of your health in many ways, beginning with prioritising prevention. Here are some steps you can take to avoid common men’s health problems at any age, ranging from eating healthier to eliminating unhealthy habits like smoking and getting regular exams.
Men’s health issues to watch out for
1. Heart disease
Heart disease kills more males than any other cause. Hence by addressing the individual risk factors, men can take an active role in their heart health. This should include eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, stopping smoking, being active, lowering stress, and taking medications as prescribed by your doctor.
Also, schedule regular checkups. These visits provide an opportunity to have screenings or tests (such as blood pressure or cholesterol levels) that may aid in the detection of heart problems before they become more problematic.
2. HPV and other STIs
Human papillomavirus (HPV), the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection, frequently resolves on its own. Nonetheless, some men infected with HPV may develop health issues such as penile cancer or genital warts as a result of the virus. HPV vaccines can help prevent infection, although they are more likely to be effective before the age of 26. Condoms are also an important preventative measure for HPV and other STIs.
3. Cancer
According to the CDC, cancer is the second-leading cause of death among men, trailing only heart disease. Skin, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers are the most common cancers diagnosed in men. To keep certain cancers at bay, providers recommend a healthy lifestyle along with regular checkups. Wearing sunscreen, minimising processed or red meat, stopping smoking, and speaking with your provider about testing can all help reduce your cancer risk.
4. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is widespread in men, especially those over the age of 75, but it does not have to interfere with your sexual life. Medication and other treatments can be beneficial, as can activities such as stopping smoking or restricting alcohol consumption. In any event, it’s a good idea to have any symptoms evaluated by your provider, as this illness could be a symptom of a more serious problem, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
5. Diabetes
At a lower weight, men are more likely than women to develop type 2 diabetes. This is due in part to male bodies having higher abdominal fat, which increases the risk of this chronic condition. Controlling your weight and increasing your physical activity can help minimise your risk. It’s also important to understand your risk for prediabetes so you can take action as soon as possible. To get started, use the CDC’s prediabetes risk test.
6. Low testosterone
Testosterone levels begin to fall in a man’s thirties, but if this natural decline creates unwanted symptoms such as decreased sex desire or difficulty concentrating, consult your provider to see if you need a blood test to evaluate your hormone levels. Your provider can assist in the diagnosis of any underlying disorders that may be causing the “low-T,” as well as discuss solutions such as testosterone replacement treatment.
7. Depression
Men may go undetected with depression since the symptoms may not always match what they might expect. Men’s depression might manifest as rage or irritability rather than melancholy. They are also more likely to brush these emotions beneath the rug. If you feel you are depressed, the first step is to consult with your provider. Remember that providers are trained to assist, not to pass judgment.
Take preventive and proactive care measures.
On this “Men’s Day” let us all make a promise to take care of our health, no matter what health difficulties we are dealing with, we can take control of our health by adopting preventive and proactive measures today.
Furthermore, take care of your body from the inside out, and consider your healthcare practitioner a partner in your care. They can direct you to recommended testing, answer your questions, and set you on the road to improved health.
