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?
- 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】.
- 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】.
- 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.
- 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:
- Regular Check-ups and Screenings Men should prioritize regular visits to their healthcare provider for annual physical exams, screenings for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, and vaccinations. Early detection of conditions like prostate cancer, high blood pressure, and diabetes can save lives. For example, the American Cancer Society recommends that men aged 50 and older discuss the need for prostate cancer screening with their doctors【7】.
- Healthy Diet and Exercise Eating a balanced diet and staying physically active are key components of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports overall health. The CDC recommends that men aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week【8】.
- Mental Health Awareness Men need to prioritize their mental health by seeking support when needed. Breaking the stigma around mental health issues is crucial. Men should feel encouraged to reach out to therapists, counselors, or support groups when experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety. Understanding that emotional well-being is just as important as physical health is a key step in improving men’s overall health outcomes.
- Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Reducing smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can have a profound impact on men’s health. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of lung cancer and cardiovascular disease. Moderating alcohol intake can also help prevent liver disease and improve overall physical and mental health【9】.
- Sleep and Stress Management Sleep is often overlooked, but it plays a critical role in overall health. Men should aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to support immune function, cognitive health, and emotional well-being. Managing stress through relaxation techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can also be helpful.
A Call to Action for Men’s Health
Movember serves as a reminder that men face unique health challenges that require attention and action. By acknowledging the factors that contribute to men’s higher risk for illness, we can start a conversation about prevention and treatment. Regular health check-ups, lifestyle changes, and addressing mental health concerns are key steps toward improving men’s health outcomes.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). Heart Disease in Men. Retrieved from cdc.gov.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2020). Testosterone and Cardiovascular Health. Retrieved from nih.gov.
- CDC. (2021). Men's Health: Risk Factors and Prevention. Retrieved from cdc.gov.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH). (2021). Men's Health: Why They Don’t Seek Medical Care. Retrieved from nih.gov.
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (2023). Suicide Statistics. Retrieved from afsp.org.
- Mayo Clinic. (2022). Men's Health: Common Conditions and Treatments. Retrieved from mayoclinic.org.
- American Cancer Society. (2023). Prostate Cancer Screening Recommendations. Retrieved from cancer.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2021). Physical Activity for a Healthy Lifestyle. Retrieved from cdc.gov.
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. (2020). Alcohol and Men's Health. Retrieved from niaaa.nih.gov.
