While there are many health conditions that impact both men and women, there are some health problems that affect men more often than women.
Here are the most common men’s health issues that you should be aware of.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is often triggered by the thickening of the lining of arteries and prevents adequate blood flow necessary for an erection. While most men experience occasional difficulty getting or maintaining an erection, a frequent occurrence is not normal. ED can impact your sexual health and intimacy.
Hair Loss
Male pattern baldness is a genetic condition that affects millions of men. Hair loss affects half of the men age 50 and above. This percentage drastically increases at age 70. However, hair loss can start as early as the teenage years and continue to affect men during adulthood.
Chronic Alcoholism
Alcoholism is a significant issue for a lot of men. Since men are more likely to abuse alcohol than women, they are also at higher risk of injury due to alcohol abuse. Almost 75% of deaths caused by excessive drinking involve men. Alcoholism is also a risk factor for mouth, liver, and colon cancer, all of which are more prevalent in men. It may also affect hormone production and cause impotence or infertility.
Depression
Men can be less social than women and societally conditioned not to have healthy coping mechanisms for their emotions. These factors can make them vulnerable to depression. According to the CDC, men are more likely to commit suicide than women.
There are easy steps you can take to prevent depression from overtaking your life. To keep your mental health in tip-top shape, you can try integrating the following into your lifestyle:
- Regular exercise
- Journaling
- Staying in frequent touch with family and friends
- Reaching out for professional help
Prostate Cancer
The prostate is a walnut-sized gland located at the back of the penis. This gland can be the site of many complications for men as they age.
In the US alone, around 200,000 men develop prostate cancer every year. It is the second most common cancer among men.
If you are 55 years or older, it is best to get your prostate checked regularly. You can expect either a digital rectal exam or a blood test for a prostate-specific antigen.
Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic disease that usually starts out asymptomatically. If left untreated, this illness can lead to complications such as nerve and kidney damage. Diabetes can also cause heart disease, ulcers, kidney failure, and even blindness.
Men suffering from diabetes face a higher risk of having sexual impotence due to decreased testosterone levels and nerve damage. If you have a family history of diabetes, talk to your physician for periodic screenings.
Heart Disease
According to recent studies, one in three adult men could be suffering from cardiovascular disease. This makes heart disease a significant concern. You are at a higher risk of heart disease if you smoke or have any of the following:
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Family history of heart disease
Men’s Health Experts Near You
Men are at risk of various health conditions. Our trusted medical professionals here at NIVA Health can help identify your risks of conditions, diagnose you, and provide effective treatment options.
We offer various effective treatments that can help you live a fuller, more confident life. Don’t hesitate to call us at (866) 377-5872. You can also visit the NIVA Health location nearest you or request an appointment online.
