Men’s Health: Simple Steps That Can Add Years to Your Life

Did you know that according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men live approximately five years less than women? The good news? Many of the top health threats to men are preventable. If you have a male loved one, or you are a male looking to improve your health, there’s no better time than now to learn what can be done to live a healthier — and hopefully longer — life! 

Let’s look at some top health concerns for men:  

Enfermedad cardiaca

The CDC states that heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S. (about one in four males). Heart disease encompasses a broad range of diseases of the heart and blood vessel system, including heart attack, stroke, angina, heart failure, and high blood pressure.  

Because heart disease can go undetected until symptoms arise, it’s important to understand your risk factors and take steps to reduce those risks. Making better choices can go a long way in helping you avoid the conditions related to heart disease — such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol. 

Cáncer

Cancer is also among the leading causes of death for men. The American Cancer Society states that the most common cancers in men are: 

• Colon: In Delaware and the U.S., colon cancer is the third-most-diagnosed type of cancer in men and women, and the third-most-common cause of cancer death. Almost all types of colon cancer can be prevented through early screening. 
• Pulmón: Lung cancer is a condition where cells in the lungs begin to change and grow out of control. It’s the leading cause of cancer death among men and women, accounting for almost 25% of cancer deaths in the U.S. 
• Próstata: Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer diagnosed in men. The incidence of prostate cancer has increased over the past 20 years.  
• Skin: Long-term sun exposure, sunbathing, indoor tanning, and getting sunburned all increase your chance of developing skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the U.S. 
• Testicular: Although testicular cancer can happen at any age, it is the most common type of cancer in men ages 15 to 35. It’s also one of the most curable cancers. 

Through regular cancer screenings that follow recommended guidelines, you can detect cancer early, increasing your chances for successful treatment. 

Diabetes 

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes, and men are more likely to develop Type 2 diabetes at a lower weight than women, according to the CDC. While Type 2 diabetes can be controlled with proper diet and exercise, many people require medication or insulin. Unlike Type 1 diabetes, which has no known cause, the development of Type 2 diabetes is associated with several risk factors, such as obesity, high blood pressure and age. 

Mental Health  

While mental health issues affect everyone, men are more likely to die by suicide than women. And women are more likely to seek treatment for their mental health. Experiencing a mental health challenge can be confusing and frightening. If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, Delaware has resources, such as the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, to get the help you need. 

Here’s the Good News! 

There are many things men can do to improve their health and reduce their risk of all the conditions mentioned above: 

• Make healthy food choices. The right food choices can make a big difference in your health. Eating more fruits and vegetables and fewer saturated fats will help you maintain a healthy weight and potentially avoid chronic diseases. 
• Get active and maintain a healthy weight. Getting regular physical activity during the day is one of the most important things you can do for your both your physical and mental health. Spend a minimum of 30 minutes a day walking, stretching, biking, or doing aerobic exercise.  
• Quit smoking and limit alcohol. If you smoke, quit; if you have never smoked, don’t start. Men should limit alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day. 
• Manage stress. When you focus your attention, you can eliminate the crowding in your mind that causes stress. Practicing mindfulness, such as meditation or deep breathing, can reduce stress and boost well-being. 
• Get regular screenings and checkups. To stay healthy, you need guidance and support. You’ll find both from a primary care provider and an insurance plan that not only covers you when you’re sick but also helps you stay well.