The life expectancy in men is much shorter than that of women. Some of this has to do with genetics and biological makeup, others have to do with rates of smoking and drinking. Odds are if you’re a man, you could develop any of the following conditions before you hit age 50. Here are some of the top conditions affecting men’s health.
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Heart and Cardiovascular Disease
An estimated 2.8 million men experience a stroke each year. In fact, with nearly one in three men having some form of cardiovascular disease, heart, and cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S. Hypertension, increased blood pressure against the artery walls, is common in younger men.
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Lung Cancer / Respiratory Disease
The leading cause of death in men across the globe is lung cancer. And the numbers are getting worse. While smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, hazards related to their occupation, such as asbestos exposure or working without proper ventilation, also increase this risk. This can make men more susceptible to influenza and pneumonia.
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Erectile Dysfunction (ED)
ED occurs when men are unable to achieve or sustain an erection. There are a number of causes to ED; some are medical – for example, inadequate blood flow to the penis – but oftentimes may be psychological. Prescription drugs, excessive alcohol, smoking and taking recreational drugs may also contribute to ED.
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Prostate Issues
Frequent urination, painful ejaculation, blood in the urine or semen, or pain or stiffness in the lower back, hips, or upper thighs. These are all symptoms of prostate issues. While these symptoms may mirror other conditions, it is best to have your prostate checked annually. A leading cause of death in U.S., prostate cancer can be treated and even cured if caused early.
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Skin Cancer
While skin cancer is widely preventable with proper skin care and regular checkups, more men than women die of melanoma. One of the top causes of death in men, those over the age of 50 are at highest risk for developing skin cancer. This is likely due to frequent sun exposure, failure to use sunscreen or products containing SPF, and fewer visits to the doctor.
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Diabetes
After putting on weight, men are more at risk for diabetes than are women. This is because the way store fat increases their risk. If left untreated, diabetes can lead to erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, urological problems, nerve damage, dehydration and damage to the eyes, kidneys, and hearing. This can also lead to depression and anxiety.
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Depression
Men experience depression with reported symptoms of fatigue and irritability. Often times, they may not realize they are depressed, so they are less likely to acknowledge their state and seek help. Depression can lead to thoughts of suicide, job loss, and failed or stressed relationships. Men have a suicide rate 3.5 times higher than women. It’s important for men to seek help for persistent depression.
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Stroke
Strokes result when a broken blood vessel or a blood clot interrupts blood flow to the brain. Strokes are typically caused by high blood pressure, which is inevitable and can be prevented, delayed and treated.
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Pneumonia
Partially due to the fact men are more reluctant to seek medical treatment for “lesser offenses” like colds and sinus infections, men are more likely than to contract pneumonia. Small colds, the flu, and other conditions oftentimes develop into pneumonia, which requires immediate medical attention before hospitalization is required.
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Accidents
Accidents at work, sports, and recreational activities such as hunting and working on cars, mean that men may be especially prone to traumatic injuries or fatal accidents. Practicing safety and caution first is the best way to prevent health conditions.
The medical team at SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation diagnose and treat a variety of conditions in adults, including diabetes, through superior service and state-of-the-art treatment methods. If you have been diagnosed with any of these health conditions, SC Internal Medicine Associates & Rehabilitation can help you. Call us at (803) 749-1111 to schedule an appointment or fill out our simple online appointment request form today. We look forward to serving you.
