Statistics compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention list the top health problems in men as cardiovascular disease, cancers, injuries, neurological conditions and respiratory illnesses. While most of these conditions can be prevented and treated with proactive self-care and early detection, men tend to smoke and drink more than women and seek medical help less often. This puts men at greater risk to experience significant health problems.
Types of Cardiovascular Health Problems in Men
According to MayoClinic.com, heart disease is the leading threat to cardiovascular health in men and includes such conditions as coronary artery disease, heart arrhythmia and heart attack. While the symptoms of heart disease vary by specific condition, common signs include chest pain, shortness of breath and pain or numbness in the arms and legs. Recommended self-care to prevent heart disease includes avoiding smoking, increasing exercise, maintaining a health weight, managing stress, and exercising.
Effects of Cancer on Men's Health
Lung cancer due to smoking is the most common form of cancer in men; prostate and colorectal cancer also cause significant health problems in men. Prostate cancer, a cancer that only affects men, can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. According to MayoClinic.com, the prostate is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Decreased force of urine output, blood in urine and swelling in the legs are signs commonly associated with prostate cancer. General treatment for prostate cancer includes radiation, hormone therapy, removal of the prostate and chemotherapy.
The Significance of Injuries on Men's Health
According to the CDC, motor vehicle accidents followed by falls and poisonings are the leading causes of injuries and fatal accidents among men. Men can reduce health problems associated with motor vehicle accidents by wearing a seat belt, avoiding cell phone use while driving, and not driving under the influence of alcohol. Injuries and health problems associated with falls and poisonings can be reduced by taking pro-active steps such as using non-skid mats in appropriate areas and installing fire and carbon monoxide detectors.
Potential Neurological Health Issues
Stroke is the most significant neurological condition affecting men's health. A stroke occurs when a clot blocks blood flow to the brain; or when a blood vessel ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain. Common indicators of stroke include severe headaches, blurred vision, loss of balance and numbness or weakness in the arms and legs, especially on one side of the body. If detected early, medical professionals attempt to minimize the damage of a stroke by dissolving the blood clot or stopping the bleeding.
Common Respiratory Conditions in Men
Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, or COPDs, are a group of diseases that cause breathing-related conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis. While genetics, air pollution and environmental factors play a role in the development of COPD, tobacco remains the main factor in the progression of COPD among men, according to the CDC. Common signs of COPD include tightness in chest, a wheezing cough and shortness of breath. Treatment depends on the severity of the COPD and commonly includes avoiding tobacco smoke and air pollution, supplementing low oxygen levels, and medications when appropriate.
