While health may appear to be an inherently individual matter unaffected by gender, age, or lifestyle, in reality, our well-being, general condition, and susceptibility to certain diseases are influenced by a myriad of factors. Consequently, it is not unexpected that women and men should adopt distinct approaches to health maintenance and disease prevention. Unfortunately, men's health seems to be more threatened by various factors than women's well-being.
What diseases do women suffer from more often, and why do men suffer more? What should representatives of each gender pay attention to when planning regular examinations or medical visits? Below you will find tips on improving men's health, as well as the latest statistics and information from the world of medicine and science.
Why Are Men More Prone To Diseases?
The latest Eurostat data indicate that statistically, men's health is at greater risk than women's. In 2021, women's life expectancy was 82.9 years and was still higher than men's - 77.2 years. What factors reduce life expectancy in men?
Limited awareness of health
Statistics clearly show that men are less eager to use and understand medical services than women. According to the Men's Health Forum, men have lower levels of health literacy than women with men twice as likely to have inadequate health literacy.
Tendency to addiction
Men’s Health Forum data alarms that Men are nearly three times as likely as women to become dependent on alcohol and three times as likely to report frequent drug use.
Poor Mental health awareness
Men are less likely to access psychological help than women. It has been reported that only 36% of referrals to NHS therapies in the UK are for men.
Obesity and diet-related issues
According to Health Express, men are more prone to obesity and related conditions, as 68.6% of men are obese or overweight, compared to 59% of women.
In summary, the latest data highlights a concerning trend wherein men face a greater risk to their health compared to women. Factors contributing to this disparity include limited health awareness, with men being less likely to use medical services and possessing lower health literacy. Additionally, a higher tendency towards addiction, poor mental health awareness, and elevated rates of obesity among men contribute to their reduced life expectancy. Recognizing and addressing these factors is crucial for promoting men's health and well-being, emphasizing the need for increased awareness, education, and access to healthcare services.
What Are Most Common Diseases in Men?
In 2022, there were 292,064 deaths of men registered in England and Wales. There were five leading causes of male deaths in this period:
- ischaemic heart diseases (38,730 deaths)
- dementia and Alzheimer’s disease (23,332 deaths)
- Malignant neoplasm of trachea, bronchus and lung (14,856 deaths)
- chronic lower respiratory diseases (14,690 deaths)
- Cerebrovascular diseases (13,046 deaths)
Other health problems common in men include prostate cancer, diabetes (type 1 and 2) as well as depression and other mental-health related issues. In comparison, the most common causes of death in women were the same, but they occurred in a different order - the most common cause of death in women was dementia and Alzheimer's disease (responsible for 42,635 deaths in 2022).
Men’s Health: Prevention and Recommendations
How can men take care of their health on a daily basis? Regular health check-ups, including screenings for cardiovascular health, prostate cancer, and other age-appropriate assessments, play a crucial role in early detection and prevention. Embracing a balanced and nutritious diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight contribute significantly to overall well-being.
Furthermore, fostering mental health awareness and seeking support when needed are essential components of a comprehensive approach to men's health. As men are statistically less likely to utilize medical services, promoting health literacy and encouraging regular health assessments are paramount in ensuring preventive care becomes a cornerstone of men's wellness. Access to medical and diagnostic services has never been easier - thanks to rapid tests, pre-diagnosis is possible and quick to perform. By prioritizing these preventive measures, men can take proactive steps toward a healthier and longer life.
Sources:
- https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/men-women-statistics
- https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/key-data-understanding-health-and-access-services
- https://www.nutrition.org.uk/life-stages/men/common-health-issues-in-men/
- https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/birthsdeathsandmarriages/deaths/articles/deathregistrationsummarystatisticsenglandandwales/2022
- https://www.who.int/europe/news-room/fact-sheets/item/men-s-health