To live long and remain healthy, adult males need to pay close attention to specific men’s health issues. However, with regular medical check-ups and some lifestyle changes, men should be able to reduce the risk of developing the top men’s health issues.
• HEART-RELATED DISEASES
Heart attack, stroke and diseases that affect the arteries are among the top 10 men’s health issues worldwide. These ailments are collectively known as cardiovascular diseases. More than one out of three adult men are at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
High blood pressure occurs more often in men over 45 years of age. To prevent death from cardiovascular disease, you need to have a medical check-up at least once every six months. You should also monitor your blood pressure and eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
• LUNG CANCER AND RESPIRATORY DISEASES
Lung cancer is a terrible disease because it can spread rapidly before you notice its symptoms. It is difficult to treat or cure this disease when it is discovered. Lung cancer can kill within a year after it is diagnosed. Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer in men. While the number of men smoking has dropped, it is still a leading cause of death among men.
Unfortunately, there is no early detection test for lung cancer. The best way to avoid the disease is to stop smoking. If you are or have ever been a chronic smoker, visit your doctor for a medical examination.
• PROSTATE CANCER
Only men can develop this ailment, because women do not have prostate glands. The prostate is a small gland located behind the penis. It produces fluids that are important for the release of semen during sexual intercourse.
Not all cases of prostate cancer result in death. So, as you get older, it is important to visit a medical centre that has the facilities to detect the exact type of cancer you may be at risk of developing.
• ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION
Erectile dysfunction (ED), also called impotence, occurs when a man cannot get or maintain an erection. It occurs occasionally in men during times of stress, but if it happens often, it can be a sign of a serious health problem.
Erectile dysfunction may be caused by atherosclerosis, which is the hardening of arteries. ED is a sign that the blood vessels are not in good shape. Many doctors see erectile dysfunction as a warning sign of an upcoming cardiovascular or heart disease. If you notice you have ED, please visit a qualified doctor immediately.
• DIABETES
Diabetes occurs when the glucose in your blood becomes very high. It happens when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, or when the body does not respond to it. This leads to excess glucose in the blood.
Two major signs of diabetes are the frequent urge to urinate and excessive thirst. Diabetes develops slowly, and most men are not aware of it until they see the first two major signs.
Excess glucose in the blood can cause other diseases, including strokes, heart attacks and blindness. To prevent this disease, you need at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, and you should eat a diet that has a balanced combination of macronutrients.
SOURCE: Ministry of Health and Wellness
