Top Men’s Health Issues
According to statistics compiled by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), women outlive men by an average of five years. Men typically do not see a doctor for regular checkups as often as women. When men do see a doctor, their health problems are usually of a more serious nature. Awareness, health screenings, and early diagnosis of many diseases can help men live longer. Here are some of the top health issues affecting men.
Cardiovascular Disease
The American Heart Association says that 1 in 3 men have some form of cardiovascular disease. It’s the leading cause of death in men and includes heart attack and stroke. While hereditary factors or family history of the disease are factors beyond our control, other risk factors are impacted by lifestyle choices. Stress, obesity, and lack of exercise all contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure and high cholesterol levels should be monitored and controlled. Sometimes diet and exercise are enough to reduce the risk, but medication may be necessary.
Diabetes
Type 2, or adult onset diabetes, is on the rise in this country. Lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. A diet rich in fiber and heart healthy fats can help to control blood sugar levels. Regular exercise will help keep weight under control. Untreated diabetes can lead to kidney disease, nerve damage, stroke, heart attack, vision problems, and sexual impotence.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer remains a leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Those who smoke should quit. There are no effective screening tests for lung cancer currently available. Lung cancer can spread to other parts of the body even before it shows up on an x-ray. Advanced lung cancer is difficult to treat.
Prostate Problems
Men are more likely to develop prostate problems as they age. An enlarged prostate can lead to frequent urination or a slow or weak urine stream. Having an enlarged prostate does not increase the risk of developing prostate cancer. A doctor can perform a prostate screening test during a routine medical exam. A blood test can screen for prostate specific antigen (PSA). Some types of prostate cancer are slow growing and unlikely to spread. Other types are more aggressive. Treatment depends on the type of prostate cancer.
