The Top 5 Men’s Health Issues to Be Conscious Of

September 26, 2022

There are several health issues that become more prevalent with age. It’s important for men to be conscious of their health and to visit the doctor regularly. Here are five common health issues for men:

Heart Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in men. According to the CDC, one in every four men dies from heart disease, making it one of the most prolific chronic conditions nationwide. Symptoms of heart disease include:

  • Chest pain

  • Shortness of breath

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Numbness in the legs and arms

  • Pain in the neck, jaw, and throat

Making lifestyle changes is the best way to reduce your risk of heart disease. These changes include quitting smoking, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress. In addition, you can also reduce your risk by knowing your family history and getting regular checkups.

Cancer

Cancer is the second leading cause of death for men. The most common cancers that affect men are prostate, colorectal, and skin cancer. Men should be sure to get regular checkups and screenings for these cancers. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men, with one in nine men being diagnosed in their lifetime. Symptoms of prostate cancer include:

  • Urinary problems

  • Trouble urinating

  • Decreased urine flow

  • Blood in the urine or semen

  • Painful ejaculation

  • Erectile dysfunction

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in men. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

  • Blood in the stool

  • Change in bowel habits

  • Abdominal pain

  • Weight loss

  • Fatigue

Some cancers have higher survival rates than others. For example, cancers like prostate cancer are more easily treatable than others. However, early detection is key for all types of cancer, especially since many can go undetected for years. It’s critical to get checked for these cancers as well as other health conditions at least once per year in order to catch them.

Depression

Depression is a serious health issue that affects men of all ages. It affects more women than men, but men receive treatment for depression far less often than women. While it is often overlooked, depression can have a major impact on a man’s quality of life.

Depression is hard to identify from the outside looking in, and many men suffer in silence. A few indicators that someone may be depressed are:

  • Withdrawing from friends and family

  • Loss of interest in activities

  • Excessive drinking or drug use

  • Angry outbursts

  • Risky behavior

Symptoms of depression can include feeling persistently sad or anxious, problems with concentration and memory, loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and fatigue. If left untreated, depression can lead to relationship difficulties, job loss, substance abuse, and even suicide. 

Erectile Dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction is a commonly under-reported health issue that can have a significant impact on a man’s quality of life. The condition is characterized by the inability to sustain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse, and can cause distress and relationship difficulties. While erectile dysfunction can occur at any age, it is more common in older men.

There are many possible causes of erectile dysfunction, including physical health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, psychological factors such as anxiety or depression, and lifestyle choices such as smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. Treatment for erectile dysfunction often involves lifestyle changes, medication, or–in rare cases–surgery. A common solution to ED is to order delay spray online in Canada.

Diabetes

Diabetes is a condition that affects the way your body processes blood sugar. If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use insulin effectively. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body turn sugar into energy. If you can’t use it effectively, too much sugar stays in your bloodstream. Over time, this can damage your nerves, blood vessels, and organs. Diabetes is a serious disease, and it’s important for men to be aware of the risks as they get older. To prevent diabetes:

  • Maintain a healthy weight

  • Exercise regularly

  • Eat a healthy diet

  • Limit alcohol consumption

  • Don’t smoke

In addition, it’s important to get your blood sugar checked regularly, especially if you have a family history of diabetes.

Endnote

These are just a few of the many health issues that men should be aware of. It’s important to stay informed and take steps to protect your health. Remember, regular checkups and screenings are essential for the early detection and treatment of many conditions. If you have any concerns, be sure to talk to your doctor.