With the fast-changing life, most men are living a busy lifestyle and struggling every day to find the time and opportunity to look after their mental and physical health. This negligence towards early symptoms of several diseases and not setting a routine for regular health check-ups and screenings is leading to the development of serious health ailments.
Pexels/Representational image
According to a study by Harvard Medical School, men die younger than women, and they are more burdened by illness though out their life. They may fall ill at a younger age and can have more chronic illnesses than women.
There can be several health concerns of men, but some of the most common concerns leading to a serious threat to men’s health include:
1. Erectile dysfunction
It has been seen that most men develop erectile dysfunction in their lifetime. Erectile dysfunction is also an indication of a physical health problem. This condition can be because of having a low testosterone level which is linked to heart disease and type 2 diabetes. To improve this condition, men should eliminate risk factors, like stress, anxiety, smoking, and alcohol. It is important to consult a doctor to get started with proper diagnosis and treatment.
File Photo
2. Diabetes
Compared to women, men have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes at a lower weight because male bodies have more belly fat, which raises the risk of this chronic condition. Hence, managing weight and getting involved in more exercise can help reduce this risk.
3. Cancer
Women carry certain extra protective genes in their cells that act as an additional line of defense, preventing cells from growing out of control and causing cancer. Whereas men do not have these genes and are at more risk of developing cancer. Common cancers diagnosed in men includes skin, prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers. A healthy lifestyle and regular screenings, and simple actions like wearing sunscreen, limiting processed or red meat, and quitting smoking help in reducing the risk of cancer.
4. Depression
Depression can go undiagnosed in men because of social constructs and a lack of an emotional support system. Men are more likely to bottle down their emotions instead of finding a healthy outlet. It is a major problem that requires men to be more emotionally vocal and society to be more accepting of helping them with their mental health.
Unsplash/Representational Image
5. COPD and other respiratory diseases
The problems of lung cancer are increasing every year, especially among men. While occupational hazards like consuming toxic fumes and pollutants have a critical role in these diseases. Smoking continues to remain the primary culprit causing COPD. Quitting the smoking lifestyle and preventing oneself from toxic fumes and pollution is the fastest way to eliminate the risk of developing COPD.
Men can’t change their chromosomes and genes, but they can make behavioral changes to support their physical and mental health.
Here are a few ways which can help to increase their chances of living a long and healthy life:
Unsplash
– Avoid tobacco consumption in all its forms
– Consume a more nutritious and balanced diet
– Exercise regularly
– Stress management and proper sleep
– Avoid exposure to toxins and radiation
– Getting into a habit of regular medical check-ups for timely diagnosis and treatment
About the author: Dr. Vichar Nigam is a Consultant in Internal Medicine at Manipal Hospitals, Kharadi-Pune. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.
