Some men think they are strong and invincible. As such, they tend to overlook their overall health and well-being. While they love to take care of their cars, favorite gadgets, and other interests, they take their own body for granted.
In fact, one study shows that men are less likely to visit a doctor than women. Another report reveals that some avoid seeing health professionals for medical care. Unfortunately, neglecting one’s health can lead to some health issues. If left unattended, these problems can escalate into health complications and eventual deaths.
The lack of health education and an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to health deterioration. As a man, here are health risks you must be wary of:
1. Heart disease
It’s imperative to ensure your heart health. Unfortunately, most men take their hearts for granted with poor eating habits and lack of exercise. As such, heart diseases can arise in various forms.
What started as high cholesterol and high blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke, and even death. For this reason, be sure to have frequent blood pressure checks and a blood cholesterol test every five years. Finally, strive to have proper eating, healthy living, and an active lifestyle.
2. Respiratory diseases
It’s easy to see a lot of men compromising their respiratory systems through smoking. For this reason, they end up with respiratory diseases. On top of these diseases is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airflow blockage and breathing problems.
Keep in mind that COPD disease includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. In fact, about 16 million Americans are suffering from this. Hence, the best course of action is to regulate your smoking gradually and quit it altogether.
3. Liver disease
Our liver is vital for toxic substance elimination, nutrient absorption, and even food digestion in our bodies. Unfortunately, men tend to compromise their liver through alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and unhealthy eating. As a result, they end with liver diseases such as cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, bile duct cancer, and even liver cancer.
When confronted with one of these health conditions, consider getting a liver function test. For specific liver problems, visit a CT scan clinic or a medical center with an open upright MRI scanner—that is if you are claustrophobic or cannot lie down—for liver imaging. From there, get the necessary medical treatments or procedures as recommended by your doctor.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes is a common disease impacting millions of lives brought about by modern lifestyles. Unfortunately, a lot of men have diabetes. If left unattended, it can escalate to kidney damage, heart disease, blindness, and even sexual impotence.
The best course of action is to get a diabetes test every three years (starting at 45 years old). The test checks your blood sugar or glucose level to determine if you have prediabetes or the actual health condition. Ultimately, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends that men must “get out, get active, and get informed” as the best way to prevent and control diabetes.
5. Alcohol-related diseases
It’s no secret how the majority of men love alcohol drinking. In fact, men drink twice as much as women. Unfortunately, frequent alcohol consumption can lead to all sorts of diseases. Earlier on, we mentioned how alcohol use causes liver diseases.
But aside from liver diseases, it can increase your risk for cancer of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and colon. Also, it can cause alcohol-related accidents, serious injuries, and even deaths. Ultimately, the best course of action is to drink moderately and occasionally.
6. Depression and suicide
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about six million men suffer from depressive disorders every year. These include suicidal thoughts, which can eventually end up in death cases. The best way to combat depression is to seek help from health professionals. They can provide proper counseling, the right intervention, and correct medications.
But apart from this, you should strive to have healthy habits. These include eating properly, staying hydrated, working out regularly, getting enough sleep, meditating, communicating with people, and maintaining social interaction. For those with a suicidal family member, be sure to get help from a crisis or suicide prevention hotline.
Healthy living for a quality life
As a man, you aren’t always invincible. Keep in mind that taking care of your body is imperative for your health. As such, be wary of those potential health risks outlined above, from heart disease to liver disease and diabetes to depression and suicide. Most importantly, be sure to follow some of the valuable health tips recommended above. By doing so, you’ll be able to foster your overall well-being, thus ensuring a quality life.
