The Top Five Men’s Health Threats and Ways To Prevent Them

June 2024

With the upcoming celebration of Father’s Day, we thought we would feature some tips that will keep the men in our lives healthy and happy. Do you know the top threats to men’s health in the United States? The following list, compiled by the CDC, may surprise you. However, with preventative care and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risks.

#1 – Heart Disease: Heart disease is the leading killer of men in the United States. Studies have proven that heart-healthy diets and the following lifestyle changes can reduce your risk of a heart attack:

• Don’t smoke.
• Eat a healthy diet.
• Include physical activity in your daily routine.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Limit alcohol.
• Manage, don’t compress, stress.

#2 – Cancer: Early detection is the key to beating cancer. Regular visits to your physician are critical, as well as the scheduling of procedures such as annual colonoscopies, prostate exams and skin cancer screenings.

#3 – Accidents: We live in a fast-paced world, and accidents happen. Remember to do simple things like wear your seatbelt, follow the speed limit, stay away from power lines and operate tools and machinery with the proper safety equipment.

#4 – Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases: As men age, chronic lung conditions such as bronchitis and emphysema become growing concerns. To protect your respiratory health:

• See a doctor if you have a cough or cold that won’t go away.
• Don’t smoke.
• Steer clear of pollutants.

#5 – Stroke: You can’t control some stroke risk factors such as family history, age and race, but you can control other contributing factors. For example:

• Know the warning signs and make sure your family knows them as well.
• Work with your doctor to manage chronic conditions.
• Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Understanding health risks is one thing. Taking action to reduce your risks is another. Start by making simple healthy lifestyle choices—enjoy a balanced diet, stay physically active, quit smoking and get regular check-ups with your physician.

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