Most men prioritize work, family, and other responsibilities over their health. However, neglecting your routine check-ups or warning signs can result in severe health issues that affect you and the people who rely on you. By understanding men’s common health challenges, you can take significant steps to stay ahead and protect your well-being. In this article, we’ll share seven common health issues every man should be aware of and how to address them.
- Cardiovascular disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the leading causes of death among men worldwide. CVD includes conditions like heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure. Cardiovascular disease is often linked to lifestyle choices and genetic predispositions.
Fortunately, CVD can be prevented. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, high cholesterol levels and hypertension, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle are some of the major causes of cardiovascular diseases. The signs and symptoms of CVD include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath during rest or exertion, and sudden fatigue, dizziness, or nausea. Here’s how you can prevent cardiovascular disease:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet focusing on vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly
- Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels regularly
- Avoid smoking
- Limit alcohol intake
- Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
Erectile dysfunction, the inability to achieve and maintain an erection, is a condition that impacts most men’s physical and emotional well-being today. ED is a symptom of underlying health problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Below are common causes of ED:
- Poor blood circulation due to high cholesterol and clogged arteries
- Psychological factors like stress, anxiety, or depression
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and lack of exercise
The good news is that you can reverse erectile dysfunction through oral medications like phosphodiesterase inhibitors such as Sildenafil. Hormone therapy for low testosterone levels and addressing psychological barriers with therapy or counseling are also excellent strategies for overcoming erectile dysfunction. Be sure to make lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, regular exercise, and weight management to treat ED.
For severe cases, exploring surgical procedures such as suspensory ligament release might help combat ED. This surgery involves modifying the suspensory ligament of the penis to improve its function, length, and girth. According to a previous study, 93% of men who had undergone penile suspensory ligament release procedure, combined with Penile Prosthesis Implantation (PPI), reported an increase in their penis length and girth.
- Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, with most cases occurring after the age of 50. Your family history and genetics play a significant role in contracting prostate cancer. The following are symptoms of prostate cancer:
- Difficulty starting or stopping urination
- A weak or interrupted urinary flow
- Blood in urine or semen
- Pain in the lower back, pelvis, or hips.
Be sure to go for regular screening, especially if your family has a history of prostate cancer, to foster early detection and improve treatment outcomes. Screening options include:
- Prostate-specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures PSA levels in the blood. This helps indicate potential prostate abnormalities.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): Helps detect lumps, among other irregularities in the prostate gland.
- Type 2 Diabetes
When suffering from type 2 diabetes, your body becomes resistant to insulin, resulting in elevated blood sugar levels. If left untreated, type 2 diabetes can cause severe complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage, and heart disease. Some early signs of type 2 diabetes include:
- Frequent urination and increased thirst
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
- Blurred vision
- Slow-healing wounds
To prevent and manage type 2 diabetes, be sure to monitor blood sugar levels and undergo routine screenings. Eat a balanced diet with low sugar and carbohydrates and engage in regular physical activity, including strength and cardio exercises. Be sure to take prescribed medication or insulin therapy if necessary.
- Obesity
Obesity is common among most men globally, increasing the risk of numerous diseases. These illnesses include cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, you are considered obese. Obesity is caused by:
- Hormonal imbalances and certain medications
- Excess calorie intake coupled with a lack of physical activity
- Genetic predisposition to weight gain
To prevent obesity, maintain a calorie-controlled diet rich in whole foods and low in processed sugars. Engage in regular exercise, set realistic weight loss goals and track progress with professional guidance. If you are struggling with severe obesity, consider exploring medical interventions such as bariatric surgery.
- Lung cancer
Lung cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in men, mainly due to smoking and exposure to harmful substances such as radon gas or asbestos. Here’s how to tell you are suffering from lung cancer:
- A persistent cough that does not improve
- Chest pain that worsens with deep breathing and coughing
- Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
- Shortness of breath
- Unexplained weight loss
Be sure to quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke to prevent lung cancer. If you work in a hazardous environment, consider wearing protective gear to reduce the likelihood of contracting lung cancer. Undergoing regular screenings such as low-dose CT scans can also foster early detection of lung cancer and improve treatment outcomes.
- Mental health disorders
Mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and stress often go undiagnosed in men. This is because of societal stigma and reluctance to seek help, which worsens the problem, leading to severe outcomes, including suicide. The signs of poor mental health include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities
- Changes in sleep patterns, including oversleeping or insomnia
To cope with mental health issues like depression and anxiety, be sure to seek professional counseling or therapy, and engage in open conversations about emotions with trusted individuals. Incorporate regular physical activity into your daily routine, limit alcohol consumption, and avoid recreational drugs.
Endnote
Men often overlook their health until faced with severe issues. However, many conditions can be prevented or managed when detected early. Familiarize yourself with the above common health issues in men, go for regular health check-ups, and maintain a balanced lifestyle to enhance your life expectancy and quality.