Did you know that men live five years less than women on average? While genetic and hormonal factors may play a role in this lifespan difference, much of it has to do with the “healthcare gap.” This refers to the difference in the number of men who seek medical care compared to women. Men are less likely to get an annual physical, and they often put off seeing a doctor even when they are having symptoms. June is Men’s Health Month, and it aims to raise awareness of the common health problems men suffer from and how men can prevent them.

Here are four ways you or the men in your life can live longer:

1. Know When to See a Doctor

Heart disease and cancer are the two top killers of men in America. Both of these conditions are more treatable when caught early. At an annual physical, your doctor will ask you about any changes in your health and do routine blood tests and cancer screenings. A sudden loss of weight, chronic pain, fatigue, or mood changes are symptoms that are easy to put off asking your doctor about, but they could be signs of a serious condition. Routine blood tests and a physical exam can rule out less concerning causes and help you get treatment before mild conditions become severe.

Your doctor will also check your blood pressure and cholesterol during your annual visit. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are risk factors for heart disease and stroke, but they typically don’t cause symptoms until a life-threatening cardiac event occurs. You can only know if your numbers are high by seeing a doctor. These conditions are both treatable, and keeping them under control will significantly reduce your risk of serious complications down the road.

Even young, seemingly healthy men can have a heart attack. It’s a good idea to get checked out by a doctor before beginning a rigorous sport or workout routine. Heart conditions can be congenital (something you are born with) and often go undetected until they are triggered by extreme emotional or physical stress. While some cancers are more common in people over forty, others occur frequently in younger people. You’re never too young to get a cancer screening, especially if certain cancers run in your family.

The bottom line is you should get a physical every year. Most insurance plans cover 100% of the cost of an annual well checkup. If you can’t afford insurance, you can apply for Medicaid or visit a free clinic.

2. Cut Back on Bad Habits

The other primary reason men are more prone to developing fatal health problems earlier than women is lifestyle. More men drink heavily and smoke than women. These habits increase the risk of cancers (including prostate cancer), type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Men are twice as likely as women to binge drink, and this behavior raises the risk of short-term consequences like death from motor vehicle crashes, alcohol poisoning, and suicide. Men account for three-fourths of deaths from alcohol poisoning and are three times more likely than women to die by suicide, often after drinking.

If you or a man you know is struggling to control his drinking or wants to quit smoking, resources are available. Your doctor or another healthcare provider can give you guidance on where to start and a list of resources in your area. You can also dial 211 to receive free help finding addiction, mental health, and crisis services. They assist everyone, including non-English speakers and people with disabilities.

3. Watch Your Diet

For decades, men have been portrayed in the media as voracious carnivores who have to eat red meat and beef jerky. The truth is that red meat and processed meats raise cancer risks for everyone, including men. They also encourage excess inflammation, which can lead to other health problems. Aim to eat red meat no more than once per week, and keep your portion to 3 oz (about the size of a deck of cards.)

Many sugary energy drinks are also advertised to men and boys. These campaigns have been effective, and men are the primary consumers of energy and sports drinks. Unfortunately, these beverages are loaded with sugars, calories, and often an unhealthy dose of caffeine. Sugar impairs the immune system, creates inflammation, and contributes to weight gain, diabetes, and heart disease. High doses of caffeine are hard on your heart and tax your adrenal system, making you feel more cranky and tired when it wears off.

Eating a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, and whole grains is ideal for everyone. Eating this way dramatically reduces your risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity.

4. Don’t Ignore Your Mental Health Needs

Mental illnesses are not weaknesses; they’re health conditions. Anyone can experience mental illness regardless of gender, race, or socioeconomic class. Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental illnesses. Most people are affected by at least one episode of depression or anxiety in their lifetime. Sometimes short-term treatment with medication or counseling can clear up these conditions. This is usually true when something specific causes symptoms, like a break-up, job loss, or stress. For some people, symptoms are chronic, and long-term treatment is necessary. Either way, treatment is available, and you can feel better.

In women, feelings of sadness are often the dominant symptom of depression, but men often experience anger or irritability. This leads many men to think that they aren’t depressed. Anxiety can also present as irritability or a need to control one’s environment. Other symptoms of depression and anxiety include sleep problems, trouble concentrating, and unexplained aches and pains.

Since it can be challenging to recognize these feelings in ourselves, listening to those around you is essential. If your family, coworkers, or friends notice a change in your behavior or you find yourself having problems at work or in your relationships, it’s a sign you should get screened. A simple questionnaire taken at your doctor or counselor’s office can tell your provider if you need to receive treatment.

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for free and confidential help.

Holistic Healthcare for Men in Tennessee

At Stanlick Chiropractic, we provide lifestyle advice and holistic healthcare for men of all ages. Schedule a consultation today to discover how we can help you be your best self.