Are there secrets to healthy aging in men? Genetics does play a part in how we age, and what diseases we may be prone to but for most men, their health is determined by their lifestyle choices, how early they address problematic symptoms and how they handle stress.
Most men will age better, and by better, we mean healthier if they*:
Don’t smoke
Don’t drink alcohol in excess
Eat a well-rounded healthy diet, void of processed foods and high sugar
Maintain a healthy weight
Move regularly
Have a healthy support system and avoid isolation
Yes, to all the above! But, even if you are eating well, moving, not smoking and all the other “right things”, there are some health issues that often go unnoticed. Here are the top 5 culprits that should be on your radar:
- Hypertension – High Blood Pressure. Most men don’t realize they have an issue with their blood pressure until it’s detected in a routine check-up. (Another reason to see your doctor annually!) Hypertension is a serious condition that can lead to stroke, kidney issues, and more. The good news, most people can make some lifestyle changes to reduce their numbers, and medication can help get your numbers into a healthy range.
- Heart Disease. Like hypertension, heart disease often goes unnoticed until a person suffers a heart attack or death. The American Heart Association reports that the incidence of Cardiovascular Disease in US men and women is 40% from age 40-59, 75% from age 60-79, and 86% in those above the age of 80.
- Skin Cancer. Years of “sun-loving” isn’t nice to your skin. Often elderly mistake the early stages of skin cancer as “age spots”. The rule of thumb: Always have your doctor look at any spots that are new, changed shape, or bother you.
- Watch your metabolism. Have you gained weight or lost weight without changes in eating, exercise, or sleeping habits? It could be a shift in your metabolism and/or your thyroid function. A simple blood test will help detect if support is needed.
- Prostate issues. Often the first sign of prostate issues presents as a reduction in urine flow or more frequent trips to the bathroom. Not all prostate issues are cancerous – in fact many are not, so don’t delay seeing your primary physician or a urologist to talk about your symptoms.
As always, an annual check-up with your primary care physician and/or specialists is the best way to detect hidden illnesses that may be lingering without symptoms or disguised as something else.
*The content in this article should not be construed as medical advice or diagnosis.