Understanding The Importance of Men's Health

June 15, 2019

Introduction

The topic of men's health is increasingly coming into focus within health research, epidemiology, health organizations and policies. In fact, a study was done by the National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD); showing that men are more likely than women to smoke, drink alcohol and lead less healthier lives. Men are also more likely to put off routine checkups, and delay seeing a healthcare provider after experiencing signs of a health problem.

What is Men’s Health?

Creator: Caiaimage/Paul Bradbury Credit:Getty Images

(Creator: Caiaimage/Paul Bradbury Credit:Getty Images)

Men's health refers to the state of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being, as experienced by men. The first concepts of men’s Health originated in Australia, New South Wales State, by Associate Professor, Richard Fletcher. In 1997, Fletcher published an essay on Men’s Health; stating, “A men’s health issue is a disease or condition unique to men, more prevalent in men, more serious among men, for which risk factors are different for men or for which different interventions are required for men.”

Blueprint for Better Health

The most common conditions known to affect men today are heart disease, prostate, testicular, and colon cancer, and osteoporosis later in life. Men are also predisposed to accidental deaths, suicide and failure to maintain routine checkups. On the bright side, many of the diseases and conditions men face can be prevented and treated, if found early. Here are some helpful tips you can incorporate in your routine to live a healthier lifestyle.

Nine Helpful Tips for Better Health

Don't smoke. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke, air pollution and chemicals, such as those in the workplace. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, ask your doctor to help you quit.
Eat a healthy diet. Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grains, high-fiber foods and lean sources of protein, such as fish. Limit foods high in saturated fat and sodium.
Maintain a healthy weight. Exercise can help you control your weight, lower your risk of heart disease and stroke and possibly lower your risk of certain types of cancer?
Get moving. Choose activities you enjoy, such as tennis, basketball or brisk walking. All physical activity benefits your health and can boost your self esteem.
Limit alcohol. Too much alcohol can also raise your blood pressure and risk for certain types of cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation. That means up to two drinks a day.
Manage stress. Take steps to reduce stress — or learn to deal with stress in healthy ways. If you feel constantly on edge or under pressure, your lifestyle habits may suffer — and so might your immune system.
Don't wait to visit the doctor. Your doctor can be your best ally for preventing health problems. Follow your doctor's treatment recommendations if you have health issues, such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes. Also, ask your doctor about when you should have cancer screenings, immunizations and other health evaluations.
Stay Safe & Alert on the Road. Motor vehicle accidents are another common cause of death among men. To stay safe on the road, wear your seat belt. Follow the speed limit. Don't drive under the influence of alcohol or any other substances, and don't drive while sleepy.
Talk about it. An important risk factor for suicide among men is depression. If you have signs and symptoms of depression — such as feeling sad or worthless and a loss of interest in normal activities — talk to your doctor or counselor. If you're contemplating suicide, call for emergency medical help or go the nearest emergency room.

Men’s Health Statistics

Men's health is often overlooked compared to women's health.

LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH AMONG MEN AND WOMEN, 2014

Source: [7] Figure 1

LEADING CANCER TYPES FOR THE ESTIMATED NEW CANCER CASES AND DEATHS BY SEX, UNITED STATES, 2016

Source: [Reprinted with permission of Siegel RL, Miller KD, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2016. CA Cancer J Clin. 2016;66(1):7-30.] Figure 2

LEADING CAUSES OF DEATH FOR MEN ACCORDING TO RACE/ETHNICITY, 2014

Table 1

Source: [7]

Conclusion

In order to start taking better care of our health, it is important for us men to understand the risk factors and how to improve out overall health. Hopefully you found this guide useful. I'd love to hear from your thoughts on this topic, and what routines you follow to stay on top of your health.