Understanding Men Health

It is more likely to see people or even articles for that matter focusing more on women's health and hormones. But as we age, be it male or female we may be predisposed to certain health concerns that need more attention. They also, regrettably, have statistically lower rates of medical visits than their female counterparts, which leads to higher mortality rates for many diseases that, if detected early, are largely preventable. On this note, let us understand some of the most common that affect men.

Heart Disease

This has always been one of the known, also one of the most common health concerns for men for quite some time now. Unfortunately, many of the heart disease symptoms are silent, which means that many men are unaware of an underlying problem. It is therefore vital to get regular testing and checkups done to detect them at an early stage, especially for people who have a family history of heart disease. Cholesterol profile, Blood pressure, and inflammatory markers in the blood reports are the best to start with. Remember, the right lifestyle changes may help you reverse or help put you in remission from any cardiac issues.

Cancer

Heart disease is the number one killer as we saw above, and cancer comes in second. The most common cancers diagnosed in men include prostrate, skin, lunch, and colorectal cancers. Simple lifestyle changes like managing stress, adding more fibre & antioxidants to meals, and avoiding processed foods and meat, being physically active, quitting smoking, and limiting drinks can be highly beneficial in reducing the chances of cancer.

Diabetes

Men are more likely than women to develop type 2 diabetes at a lower weight. This is large since male bodies have more belly fat, which increases the risk of developing this chronic illness. Keeping the weight under control, working on improving exercise, maintaining protein and fiber intake along with regular testing could help detect prediabetes.

Erectile Dysfunction And Low Testosterone Levels

ED is three times more common in men over 40 than it is in younger men. Ask your doctor if you need a blood test to check your hormone levels if you experience symptoms of ED like low sex drive or trouble concentrating. There are innumerable herbs and supplements too that one can start to slowly work on improving testosterone levels. Not to forget stress and exposure to Endocrine disrupting chemicals can greatly affect hormone balance and therefore working on those with early diagnosis would be helpful.

Depression

Since the symptoms of depression in men do not always match what they might anticipate, it can go undiagnosed. Instead of feeling sad, men can sometimes become angry or irritable when depressed. Additionally, they are more likely to scrape these emotions aside. A major shift in nature or feelings is something that you need to watch out for. Managing stress, seeking help from a counsellor, and working on gut and brain health goes long way in improving mental health and well-being.

I know it is easier said than done and the increased access to unhealthy food, sedentary jobs and the increasing amount of stress can make things difficult. But remember a healthy lifestyle is still attainable despite all the above obstacles. Start with simple changes and be consistent. Seek help if you need to.