Prevent the 7 Threats to Men’s Health

Reading time: 6 – 9 minutes

Men’s Health Week is celebrated each year as the week leading up to and including Father’s Day. This year, Men’s Health Week runs from June 11th–17th. It is observed as part of the larger Men’s Health Month, which is celebrated during the month of June with screenings, health fairs, media appearances, and other health education and outreach activities.

The purpose of Men’s Health Week is to increase awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the biggest threats to men’s health can often be prevented [1]. Here’s a list of the top seven threats to men’s health and what you can do to minimize those risks.

1. Heart diseaseHeart disease is the leading cause of death in U.S. males [2]. The good news is that measures can be taken to prevent heart disease. Here’s some things you can do to take charge of your heart health:
   • Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit smoking.
   • Eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, high-fiber foods, and lean sources of protein.
   • Manage chronic conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
   • Include physical activity in your daily routine.
   • Watch your weight.
   • Limit alcohol consumption.
   • Take steps to reduce your stress.
2. CancerThe three most common cancers among men are prostate cancer, lung cancer and colorectal cancer [3]. Scientists estimate that about a third of the most common cancers could be prevented through diet and lifestyle [4]. Choose healthy lifestyle alternatives to reduce your risks for developing cancer:
   • Take a daily baby aspirin (75mg).
   • Don’t smoke. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
   • Watch your weight.
   • Include physical activity in your daily routine.
   • Eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, high-fiber foods, and lean sources of protein.
   • Use sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun.
   • Limit alcohol consumption.
   • Take early detection seriously. Get regular cancer screenings.
3. AccidentsMotor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of fatal accidents among men. When driving, use common sense: always wear your seat belt, don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and don’t drive when you’re tired. Avoid distractions such as the radio or texting and follow the speed limit (this will also improve your financial health, reduce stress, and help save the planet).
4. Chronic lower respiratory diseasesChronic lung conditions such as bronchitis and emphysema are a concern for men. Here’s how you can protect your respiratory health:
   • Don’t smoke.
   • Pay attention to air quality; steer clear of pollutants.
   • Prevent respiratory infections. Wash your hands and get the yearly flu vaccine.
5. StrokeStroke is the most common cause of adult disability. Although you can’t control some stroke risk factors, such as family history, age and race, you can control other contributing factors:
   • Manage chronic conditions such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
   • Don’t smoke.
   • Eat a healthy diet.
   • Include physical activity in your daily routine.
   • Limit alcohol consumption.
6. Type 2 diabetesType 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It is a lifelong disease in which there are high levels of sugar (glucose) in the blood. To prevent type 2 diabetes, eat a healthy diet, exercise, and watch your weight. Research has shown that you can also lower diabetes risk by getting a good nights sleep.If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. Poorly controlled diabetes can lead to heart disease, eye problems, nerve damage and other complications.
7. SuicideSuicide is another leading men’s health risk. An important risk factor for suicide among men is depression. Depression is serious: changes in heart function are seen during major depression. Effective treatments for depression are available. If you have signs and symptoms of depression, such as feelings of sadness or unhappiness and loss of interest in normal activities, talk to your doctor.

The bottom line to men is to take these seven health threats seriously. The actions listed on this page will positively affect your health and increase the likelihood of living a long and healthy life.

References

1. Men’s health: Preventing the top 7 threats. Mayo Clinic. Accessed 2012 Jun 13.
2. Leading Causes of Death in Males United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2012 Jun 13.
3. Cancer Among Men. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed 2012 Jun 13.
4. Cancer prevention. World Cancer Research Fund. Accessed 2012 Jun 13.