Today is World Mental Health Day

Every November we hear about "Movember." So, what is it? Movember, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the unique health challenges men face. While men tend to be less likely to visit doctors regularly or discuss their health concerns openly, they are also more vulnerable to certain health conditions than women. This discrepancy in health outcomes is not just due to genetics; behavioral factors, societal norms, and access to healthcare play significant roles in why men are more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses and preventable diseases. Understanding these factors and making proactive changes can help improve men’s health outcomes.

Why Are Men More Likely to Get Sick?

1. Higher Risk of Chronic Diseases Men are more likely to develop certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. In fact, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S., responsible for nearly one in four deaths. Men are also at a higher risk for conditions like prostate cancer, lung cancer, and liver disease【1】.Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including biological differences in how men and women process fat, hormones, and stress. For instance, testosterone in men has been linked to higher cholesterol levels, which increase the risk of heart disease【2】.
2. Poor Health Habits Men are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are more likely to drink alcohol in excess and smoke cigarettes compared to women, both of which contribute to a higher risk of conditions like lung cancer, cardiovascular disease, and liver damage【3】.Additionally, men are less likely to engage in preventative care practices such as regular physical exams, screenings, and vaccinations. Studies show that men are significantly less likely to visit a healthcare provider for routine check-ups, which can result in delayed diagnosis and treatment of conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes【4】.
3. Mental Health Stigma Mental health is another area where men are more likely to struggle in silence. Societal norms often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking help for emotional distress. As a result, men are more likely to experience mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse without seeking the necessary help. Suicide rates are higher in men, with men accounting for about 75% of all suicide deaths in the U.S【5】. The stigma surrounding mental health in men has contributed to these outcomes, preventing many from getting the support they need.
4. Genetics and Biology Biological factors also contribute to differences in health outcomes between men and women. For instance, men are more prone to certain types of cancers, such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer. Genetics can also play a role in male-specific conditions like male pattern baldness and erectile dysfunction, which can affect overall well-being and quality of life【6】.

What Can Men Do to Improve Their Health?

Despite these challenges, men’s health can significantly improve with proactive care and lifestyle changes. Here are some ways men can take charge of their health: