June is the month that we celebrate our fathers. June 15 marked the official day for Fathers Day this year and this month also marked the celebration of men’s health month. Men are often referred to as the “silent crisis” in America due to their less healthy lifestyle, which causes them to die younger than American women on average.
In each of the top ten causes of deaths, men die at higher rates than women. They also account for 92 percent of workplace deaths. Back in 1920 women lived, on average, one year longer than men, but today women are living approximately 5 years longer.
Most people in America have had or currently have someone they are close to suffering from a major health problem. Men are likely the main ones dealing with life altering health issues. Making appointments for annual examinations is an important key factor in health and men are much less likely to make these appointments.
Men have higher rates of heart disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, injuries, stroke, suicide, and HIV/AIDS than women by staggering numbers. In men, depression leads to suicide four times more often, due to the fact it goes undiagnosed; and testosterone is linked to higher elevations of LDL, the bad cholesterol, and declines in HDL, the good cholesterol.
Although, there are more males conceived than females, three of every five victims of sudden infant death syndrome are boys. There has been no exact link of SIDS to gender, however, studies show the male fetus is at a greater risk of miscarriage and stillbirth and 25 percent more newborn boys die than newborn girls.
As far as men’s immune systems are concerned, their bodies contains fewer infection fighting T-cells and are thought to have weaker immune systems than women. Also, of those who live to the century mark, women outnumber men eight to one.
Many of the major health risks that men face can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. Screening tests can find diseases early, which can mean the difference in life and death. It is very important to schedule these tests every year.
Making healthier choices at any age is the best thing you can do for your livelihood. On top of getting regular screenings, healthier choices include: being physically active, eating right, maintaining proper weight, being tobacco free, and having no more than two alcoholic drinks per day.
Being active and healthy not only make us look better but also can bring positive self-esteem, better posture and balance, improved mood, and increased energy. Plus, the healthier you stay, the more equipped your body is in fighting disease.
There are over 300,000 deaths per year caused by poor nutrition and a lack of physical activity. There is no quick fix, but the rewards are priceless. Make 2014 the year you take back your health. Men, take advantage of the beautiful summer weather and let June be your month of healthier lifestyle choices.
Sources: http://www.nlm.nih.gov; http://www.menshealthnetwork.org