Men's Health
Because men and women have different parts and bodily needs, it is important to keep these differences in mind when taking care of your health. Men have specific health risks that need to be kept in check, making it important for you to know what you should do to keep yourself healthy for years to come. Although most men don't need to worry much about their health until they reach age 50, it is important to think about your health now to prevent many of the problems that could down the road.
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Prostate Cancer
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Prostate cancer is the second leading cancer death in men. In 2004, 189,075 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer. Additionally, over 29,000 men died of cancer that same year (United States Cancer Statistics: 2004 Incidence and Mortality). The older a man gets, the greater his risks become for prostate cancer. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recommends that all men over age of 50 be screened for prostate cancer at least once a year. This can be done through a digital rectal exam or a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.
Colon Cancer
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Colon cancer is also a huge risk for men as they grow older. In 2004, 26,881 men died from colon cancer. Almost 74,000 men were also diagnosed with the disease in the same year (National Cancer Institute, 2007). Colon cancer is tested using a colon/rectal screening procedure. You can call 1 (800) 4-CANCER to find out what methods of screening are available in your area. You may also live in an area that offers free or low-cost screening options. It is recommended that men over age 50 get screened once a year. In some cases, it is recommended for men between 35 to 40 to have screenings as part of their normal yearly physicals. Colon cancer risks can be lowered by eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and fiber.
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Heart
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Heart problems such as heart disease or heart attacks are also a large health concern for men. Keeping a healthy heart involves keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels within the right ranges. These levels can be tested through a simple blood test at your doctor's office. Exercising regularly, and eating a diet low in fat and high in fiber, can also help to keep your heart healthy and strong. Exercise and diet alone can dramatically lower your blood pressure and help to improve your cholesterol levels.
Obesity
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Obesity is one of the largest health problems facing men today. With an average diet consisting of high fat, high sugar, low nutrition foods, it's no wonder that more men are tipping the scales from obesity. However, a gradual lifestyle change can help curb the obesity trend. Start with adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet and getting out at least once a week to play a sport or do something active. Even walking outdoors can help you lose weight. Start small and slowly start cutting out more fats and sugars, and replace them with whole grains and foods rich in good cholesterol. Increase your weekly activity into daily activities like going for a hike or spending some time at the gym.
STDs
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Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are another health concern for men. This is especially true for those with multiple partners or have sex with other men. If you are sexually active, regardless of whether you are heterosexual or homosexual, you should be screened at least yearly for STDs. Common STDs in men include hepatitis, herpes and HIV. Men are also susceptible to gonorrhea and syphilis. STDs can occur on the penis, the anus, or even in the throat, mouth or eye. Many are incurable, and some may even cause infertility or death. You may also be at risk for STDs, especially HIV, through intravenous drug use and needle sharing.
Alcohol
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Alcohol is another health issue facing men today. Men are two times more likely to binge drink than women. In fact, men average 12.5 binge drinking episodes per person per year (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, March 28th, 2008). Binge drinking can cause serious cases of alcohol poisoning and may even cause death. Also, those who binge drink are much more likely to become tolerant and dependent on alcohol as an addiction. Alcohol may lead to drunk driving, car accident deaths, liver disease, liver failure and even liver and stomach cancer if left untreated. Moderation or abstinence from alcohol are important keys to men's health.
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Resources
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