If you take better care of your car than your body, you’re not alone. According to Men’s Health Network, American men are becoming increasingly less aware of their health issues. They’re not educated on common health issues, and they adopt unhealthy work and personal lifestyles.
It’s important to take your health seriously as a man – no matter your age. Here are five health issues that are common among males.
1. Heart Disease
Heart disease is a major killer among men. According to the American Heart Association, more than one in three adult males have some form of heart disease.
Cardiovascular disease can come in many forms, but they all lead to serious and/or fatal complications if left unchecked.
High blood pressure is common among men under the age of 45, and stroke targets more than 3 million men.
Routine check-ups can help detect, prevent and treat heart issues before they progress to a more severe level.
Your doctor can determine your risk of heart disease based on several risk factors, including your blood pressure, cholesterol and smoking habits.
2. Depression
Researchers estimate that at least 6 million men suffer from depressive disorders each year. Help is out there for those who are suffering from depression. Therapy and medication have helped many men overcome this complicated disease.
Lifestyle changes can also help combat depression, including:
- Exercising regularly
- Talking to friends and family about the issue
- Journaling and writing down your thoughts
3. Sexual Issues
Men of all ages can face sexual-related issues, including low libido. As men age, it’s common for them to struggle with sexual performance. Men are often embarrassed or ashamed of these issues, so they suffer in silence. But there is help out there.
Common sexual issues men face include:
- Premature ejaculation
- Erectile dysfunction
- Low libido
- Delayed ejaculation
Sexual dysfunction can have many causes, including:
- Low testosterone levels
- Smoking
- Blood vessel disorders
- High blood pressure
- Prescription drugs
- Alcoholism
- Drug abuse
- Stroke or nerve damage
- Depression
- Relationship problems
- Concerns about sexual performance
All of these issues can be treated or managed with the help of a physician.
4. Diabetes
Diabetes is common among men, although both genders can develop this disease. If left untreated, diabetes can cause kidney and nerve damage, stroke, heart disease, and even blindness.
Men in particular may suffer from lower testosterone and sexual impotence. These two issues can lead to anxiety and depression.
Prevention is key. Here’s how to reduce the risk of diabetes:
- Cutting refined carbs and sugar
- Exercise regularly
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
- Eat more fiber
- Cut down on processed foods
5. Liver Disease
Your liver has an important job: to absorb nutrients, help you digest food, and eliminate toxic substances.
Common liver conditions that men face include:
- Viral hepatitis
- Cirrhosis
- Liver cancer
- Autoimmune diseases
- Alcoholic liver diseases
- Bile duct cancer
Alcohol and tobacco use can greatly increase your chance of developing liver disease.
It’s important to take good care of your liver. Cut back on your alcohol intake, eat a healthy diet and be mindful of the effects of your medications.
