Men may be perceived as the physically stronger gender because they are bigger and more muscular than women. However, when it comes to health, it’s the other way around. Men are more likely to experience chronic health conditions earlier than women because of different lifestyle, biological and social factors. These include smoking, alcohol and substance abuse, stress, hormones, metabolism, genes, lack of exercise, unhealthy diet and lack of regular checkups.
1. Heart disease
More men die of heart disease than any other cause of death. Men can play an active role in their heart health by managing their unique risk factors. This should include eating a balanced diet with fruits and veggies, quitting smoking, staying active, reducing stress and taking medications as instructed by your healthcare provider.
Also, be sure to get regular checkups. These visits are an opportunity to get screenings or tests (like blood pressure or cholesterol) that may help detect heart problems before they become more serious.
2. Cancer
Cancer follows heart disease as the second-leading cause of death among American men, the CDC reports. Common cancers diagnosed in men include skin, prostate, colorectal and lung cancers. Providers suggest a combination of a healthy lifestyle and regular screenings to keep these cancers at bay. Simple actions like wearing sunscreen, limiting processed or red meat, quitting smoking and talking to your provider about testing can all go a long way toward reducing your cancer risk.
3. Diabetes
Compared to women, men have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes at a lower weight. This is partly because male bodies have more belly fat, which itself raises the risk of this chronic disease. Managing your weight and getting more exercise can help reduce this risk. It’s also good to know your risk for prediabetes so that you can take action early. Take this prediabetes risk test from the CDC to get started.
4. Erectile dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is common in men, especially those older than 75, but that doesn’t mean it should impact your sex life. Treatments such as medications can help, and actions like quitting smoking or limiting alcohol can have a preventive effect too. In any case, it’s good to get any symptoms checked out by your provider, as this condition could be a sign of a more severe issue, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
5. HPV and other STIs
As the most common sexually transmitted infection, human papillomavirus(HPV)often resolves on its own. Still, some men with HPV can develop certain health problems such as penile cancer or genital warts from the infection. HPV vaccines can help prevent infection, but they will likely be most beneficial before a person is 26. Condoms are also an important measure to prevent HPV and other STIs.
6. Low testosterone
Testosterone starts to drop in a man’s thirties, but if that natural decline causes unwelcome symptoms like low sex drive or trouble concentrating, ask your provider whether you need a blood test to check your hormone levels. Your provider can help diagnose any underlying issues that may be causing the “low-T” and discuss options like testosterone replacement therapy.
7. Depression
Depression can go undiagnosed in men because the symptoms don’t always align with what they might expect. Men sometimes experience depression as anger or irritability rather than sadness. They’re also more likely to sweep these feelings under the rug. If you suspect you are suffering from depression, take the first step by talking with your provider. Remember, providers are trained to help, not judge.
8. COVID-19
Covid-19 can hit men really hard. Research has found that men who contract the disease have a higher risk of hospital interventions and death. Now that COVID-19 vaccines are more widely available, getting vaccinated can help prevent the risk of infection altogether.
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