Top Health Concerns For Men

Did you know that the average man pays less attention to his health than the average woman? That’s according to Harvard Medical School, which also states that men are more likely to:

• Make risky choices
• Skip visiting their regular healthcare provider
• Use tobacco and drink alcohol

Even men who are in good health face several threats to their well-being, from medical concerns like high blood pressure, to mental health problems like depression. Knowledge is power, so let’s examine a few of the most common health issues among men today and how to help prevent them.

Common Men’s Health Issues

Some of the top health concerns for men include diabetes, liver disease, skin cancer, and sexually transmitted diseases, as well as:

Flu & Pneumonia

The American Lung Association states that when compared to women, men are about 25% more likely to die from influenza (the flu) and pneumonia. Furthermore, men are less likely to receive a flu shot, and are therefore more susceptible to flu complications like pneumonia.

The best way to avoid these respiratory illnesses is to get vaccinated every year toward the beginning of flu season, which usually begins in October and runs through April or May. It’s also a good idea to seek medical care at the first sign of flu symptoms, as antiviral medications can reduce the severity and duration of the flu when taken early.

Heart Disease

The leading cause of death among men in the United States is heart disease—an umbrella term for multiple diseases and disorders that affect the heart and its blood vessels. In fact, the American Heart Association states one in every three men has some form of heart disease.

The best way to prevent heart disease and promote good cardiovascular health is to:

• Lose excess weight and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI)
• Increase physical activity and get around 20 minutes of exercise every day (about two and a half hours per week)
• Quit smoking and use of tobacco products
• Limit foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, while enjoying more vegetables and fiber-rich foods like quinoa and oats

Respiratory Conditions Related to Smoking

Men are more likely to smoke cigarettes than women and experience the devastating consequences, such as lung cancer and forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) like emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Furthermore, lung cancer rates are on the rise among men—the American Cancer Association says a man’s overall chance of developing lung cancer in his lifetime is around one in 15.

The only way for a smoker to reduce his risk of respiratory disease is to stop smoking. If you’re ready to quit, consider joining a smoking cessation program.

Easily Accessible Medical Services at PhysicianOne Urgent Care

PhysicianOne Urgent Care’s locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York make it easy for both men and women to access important health services in a pinch. You can rely on our physician-led teams for physicals, flu shots, pneumonia treatment, STD testing, non-emergency injury treatment, and so much more. And since we’re open during extended hours 365 days per year and welcome walk-ins, our patients never have to wait long to receive the friendly medical care they deserve.

Visit a PhysicianOne Urgent Care location near you today or connect with us online any time of day or night using our 24/7 telemedicine service. Our team is here to make achieving your best health as simple and stress-free as possible.