Men’s health encompasses different diseases and concerns that can variously affect men. The factors influencing the nature of men’s health and the experience of clinical problems in men are different from women’s health issues. Men are often assumed to be healthier than women and less likely to visit a doctor, but in fact, men are at greater risk of poor health outcomes and often suffer from a host of common symptoms and conditions, ranging from sexual dysfunction to chronic pain conditions that might be linked to psychological difficulties. They are also more susceptible to conditions such as prostate or testicular cancer and reduced life expectancy. Not only is there a need for a greater public appreciation of the existence of such a thing as men’s health, as well as a prejudice against the very existence of men’s health issues, but health professionals too need to be more aware of the unique health problems that can arise from a powerful social identity as male in certain subgroups of men.
Men’s health is not just influenced by social factors, but also interacts with and is influenced by biological and psychological factors as well. It can be difficult to separate different parts of the lived experience of health, and since the mind and body are interconnected, a person’s mental health can impact their physical health and vice versa. Many lifestyle choices or health risks associated with being a man, such as engaging in dangerous, unhealthy, and reckless behaviors, result from the psychological enactment of traditional masculine gender roles, which ultimately, but not inevitably, stem from social indoctrination of masculinity at a very young age. Discussing men’s health and acknowledging its particularities will help to dismantle some of the myths surrounding men’s health, in addition to privileging a discussion around men from diverse social and subcultural backgrounds. Proactive management of health reduces the need for consequent reactive management and more unhealthy years.
Importance of Men’s Health
Men’s health is a complex and often overlooked topic within the broader umbrella of public health, but it is an area that has increased in importance over the past few decades. Men generally have shorter lives and experience higher mortality rates and different risk and protective factors for disease, injury, and death than women. While all health issues require more research, little is known regarding certain unique or interacting risks for men and women. Influences on men’s health and healthcare are plentiful, including societal influences related to masculinity norms, media influences that may facilitate myths about risks that men experience, and clinical outcome influences of more risky behaviors.
Men’s health, and especially sexually transmitted infections and partner violence, has been shown to be driven by particular gender roles and power dynamics between men and women. Gender norms and societal pressures may also work against efforts for public health education and social marketing. However, being aware of these powerful societal influences over men’s behavior and understanding that men generally wish to have a good quality of life and a long life expectancy can be encouraging to those who see worthwhile results from health education and workshops.
Better health guidance and healthcare should help to ensure men live happier lives longer. Highlighting aspects such as better lifelong prevention, treatment, and care for curable and preventable diseases; conditions that can affect quality of life; the increased chronic diseases present in the elderly male population; and the need for ongoing and preventive measures. Initial education that enables men to understand their state of health empowers them to make lifestyle changes to stay healthier longer and present early to prevent acute or possibly chronic conditions that, in turn, would reduce morbidity. Certain societal taboos will be discussed further, and approaches will be taken to ensure that discussions of intimate areas in public settings are managed correctly and ethically. Personal stresses and the understanding of health as a holistic concept that includes mental health, emotional well-being, and physical health are important for consideration and will be the focus of training.
Physical Health Concerns
Men tend to suffer from specific health issues, and a few may even pose greater health risks to men than to women. Heart disease or cardiovascular disease is a major concern for male health care specialists because it accounts for over a quarter of all American male deaths. Close to 10% of the male population has diabetes, and the likelihood of developing the condition has risen over the years. Men are also more likely to die of a heart attack than women, possibly because of the increased occurrence of smoking among men. Men should maintain a balanced diet and active lifestyle to reduce their chances of developing heart disease. A range of diseases, such as cancer and obesity, have also been directly linked to diet and lack of physical activity.
Like women, many men succumb to health conditions that could have been prevented, such as prostate or colon cancer, two of the leading cancers in men. Men account for 35% of all obesity cases, with men who have a BMI of 40 or more, known as extreme obesity, making up 4.4% of the American male population. It’s important to have routine health checkups, also known as screenings, to rule out any serious health concerns and prevent possible diseases from occurring. Many doctors believe that preventing health issues is one of the best reasons to get checked. Our mental and emotional health is inextricably linked to our physical well-being. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can help you maintain a normal body weight, lower your blood pressure, and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease.
Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease has long been a concern for men’s health. Understanding the risks and lifestyle factors that contribute to heart disease is critical for preventative care. Some of the main factors for heart disease risk, or poor cardiovascular health, include hypertension, cholesterol levels, and diabetes. Risk factors are “modifiable” if identified, meaning that men can take action to lower their risk of heart disease. This may be done through making changes in diet and physical activity, for example. Diet and exercise can also be used to help control or manage high blood pressure, cholesterol, and diabetes if an individual has been diagnosed with one of these diseases. Awareness of individual risks for heart disease is an important step in heart attack prevention.
Outside of weight and body composition, or a loss of fitness, men need to be aware of and be proactive about actual health issues such as cardiovascular health. While it is always a good idea to be monitored by a medical professional on a regular basis, not everyone makes sure to do this consistently. Stress and mental health are also contributing factors to heart disease. There is research to suggest that regular physical activity can play a role in maintaining positive mental health. Education and manpower are needed to raise awareness about men’s heart health. Since there are so many factors involved, many men may see heart disease as something that is completely out of their control, and there is little that can be done about the risks involved. However, evidence proves otherwise, as many associations for cardiovascular health lay out an actionable plan that can help men with risk factors keep their cardiovascular health in check and ultimately prevent a heart attack from occurring.
Prostate Health
Prostate Health: A concern for many men, young and old, is the health of the prostate. The prostate is a gland that is located around the urethra, and it is responsible for secreting fluid during ejaculation as well as some muscular control of the lower urinary tract. As men age, they are more prone to have issues with their prostate, including either benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate cancer. BPH gets to be so common that it is thought that if a man lives long enough, he will likely develop BPH. In terms of cancer, prostate cancer is the second most prevalent cancer in men worldwide.
Screening for cancer is an important strategy for early intervention and prevention. The same is true of the prostate as well. It is important to know that because not all prostate cancers are aggressive, prostate cancer likewise has its grading system. There are quite a few men walking around with low-grade prostate cancer and are not even aware. Nonetheless, it is important that men get screened regularly as they get older because if the prostate cancer is aggressive, treatments such as radiation, surgery, chemotherapy, and hormonal treatment are available. There are no hard and fast recommendations to lower the risk of BPH or prostate cancer. Again, genetics does play a small role. Eating right and exercising to eliminate fat and increase muscle is a good idea that may lead to better overall health. A low-fat diet, high in fruits and vegetables, is advisable. Soy is receiving more interest for its potential to help lower the risk of prostate cancer, as are raw vegetables and whole grains. Psychological ramifications: The prostate is not only important for sexual and urinary health, but in a lot of men, it goes hand in hand with their masculinity. Problems in this area may impact a man’s emotional and social well-being. Start asking questions: This is your health we are talking about. It is important to have a frank talk with your primary doctor or urologist. If you are afraid or shy, tell them this; it is probably quite common, but remember one must not be different for “the right thing.” Find a highly respected urologist if necessary and talk; more often than not, you are going to find that the talk will not be as awkward as you suspected. The doctor will assess your concern, sometimes ask for some testing, or where indicated, refer you to a prostate expert. Depending on the recommended evaluation and the results, become fully informed and then make your decision as to the management options. Remember, there is no such thing as a bad question.
Mental Health and Well-being
Mental health is a critical component of overall health. When men struggle with mental health issues, this can influence their physical health. Some of the most common mental health problems that men face are depression and anxiety. Although many of the symptoms appear the same in men and women, these symptoms can differ significantly based on an individual’s culture, background, and experiences. Men may also be more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope, engage in high-risk behaviors, and stop seeing friends and family when they are feeling down. Often, many men report feeling angry rather than feeling sadness. They are also more likely to react to loss or life transitions by becoming lost in their work or engaging in risky behaviors.
In addition, many people – including men – express that our understandings of “how to be a man” can hurt many men’s mental health. The pressure to appear “tough” or “unemotional” or “strong” can prevent many men from seeking out help – either from friends or a mental health professional. Often, seeking mental health services is seen as a weakness. Only those who are “unstable” or “crazy” would have to talk to someone about their problems. This means if you simply suppress your feelings and don’t let them out or “deal with” them in other, more “masculine” ways, everything will be fine. In many ways, men’s secrecy and silence about mental health can further impact their physical health. In order to be proactive about changing the current trends among boys and men, we need to educate the public about male mental health. Helping to normalize the experience of men’s mental health can foster the treatment of men’s mental health issues and support men in learning options for coping with these concerns.
Depression and Anxiety
Many men experience feelings of anxiety and depression. When symptoms start to interfere with daily activities, it becomes a concern that warrants attention. Symptoms of depression and anxiety in men can be overlooked because of societal views about how men should act. People who are suffering from depression may not know it because they have little or no physical symptoms; however, based on their behavior, others may be able to recognize the problem. Or they may mistake their symptoms for something else. Depression and anxiety can contribute to physical problems, like heart disease and diabetes, because they raise levels of the stress hormone cortisol that can accelerate the buildup of artery-clogging plaque. Depression inhibits men from enjoyment as well as positive responses in their daily life, which can adversely impact relationships and support networks with others. While everyone feels blue from time to time, depression is a serious condition. There are major differences between the two, and the following signs reflect a shift in consciousness that indicates depression and anxiety:
- Feeling hopeless and helpless.
- Loss of interest in daily activities.
- Loss of libido.
- Appetite or weight changes.
- Sleep changes.
- Anger or irritability.
- Loss of energy.
- Relationship difficulties.
- Lack of concentration.
Men who are depressed may show anger and frustration rather than saying they are sad. Physical complaints, such as backache, headache, or digestive difficulties. Physical symptoms, such as fatigue or pain. Withdrawing from others, sleeping too much, or not enough. Often, depression isn’t even triggered by any improvements at all, but rather comes with the tensions and life-related adjustments. These include retirement, relationship difficulties, financial difficulties, career changes or losses, or the death of a loved one. Men’s strong reluctance to discuss feelings, ask for support, or seek help sometimes only prolongs a depressive episode.
Sexual Health
Sexual Health: Sexual health is an important part of overall health and well-being. Everyone has a different way of relating to and expressing their sexuality. It’s normal to have different feelings about sex and sexuality at different times and in different situations. Sexual health includes communicating and having sex that is consensual and respectful. It’s also about ensuring that individuals are aware of sexual health issues and have the information and means to ensure that they remain healthy. Many people find it difficult to talk openly to anyone, including their partner, about their sexual health. Issues related to sexual health can also be difficult or embarrassing to discuss with a doctor. Sharing this sort of information can make a person feel vulnerable, anxious, and very uncomfortable, but acknowledging and accepting that there is a problem is the first step.
Sexual health problems: Concerns about sexual health are very real and can be very troubling. Sexual problems can erode the confidence of men and women and feed feelings of inadequacy, anger, and isolation. Sexual health problems can also be warning signs of more serious mental health issues. The most common sexual health concerns for men are erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and delayed or absent ejaculation/orgasm. While several factors can contribute to these issues, including psychological and health problems, drugs, and fatigue, men should talk to a doctor about these issues as there is effective treatment available to help. A positive sex life is important for maintaining intimacy and closeness in all kinds of relationships. Sex is a powerful form of communication and can be based on physical, emotional, and even spiritual interactions. Sexual health is also linked to emotional and psychological health and well-being.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a very common condition affecting most men at some stage in their lives at some level. ED is a complex problem and can be associated with underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, and so forth. Lifestyle factors can also cause ED, such as excessive alcohol consumption, recreational drugs, and so on. Additionally, psychological problems, anxiety, stress, and depression can contribute to or simply be the cause of ED. Many men feel too embarrassed or ashamed to reach out for help and assume they are failing in their relationships or manhood. It is important to understand that erectile problems are a medical condition and not a flaw in personal masculinity. However, one must act immediately if the condition is continuous and seek advice from a professional. Attending a doctor and having an open conversation about sexual life is still difficult for many men. However, many clinics hold frequent webinars to educate men about erection issues or erectile dysfunction.
At the clinic, several treatments are available for ED sufferers. A doctor may suggest psychological counseling if there is evidence that the ED originates from the psychological sphere. Also, medication or even vacuums can be prescribed. Oral medications include PDE5 inhibitors that boost blood flow to the penis; this can also be administered under the skin as a hormone. Some treatments that aim to improve lifestyle and reduce other lifestyle-related issues have shown, in some cases, improvements in ED. Such a treatment consists of current treatments and therapies that involve elements such as fitness, food, psychosexual intercourse, and other factors, but also the prescription of oral tablets to improve erections. The condition leads to noticeable psychological and emotional problems, including low self-esteem, reduced trust, lack of human desire, and relationship problems.
Lifestyle Factors and Prevention Strategies
Lifestyle factors play a large role in men’s health outcomes. Eating right and being physically active are key components of a healthy lifestyle that can help prevent a number of health conditions and reduce the risk of developing others. In addition to a balanced diet, regular physical activity, another key component of a healthy lifestyle, contributes to preventing disease, maintaining a healthy weight, making muscles stronger, and improving mood. Get at least seven hours of sleep per night to improve mood, help in weight management, and keep the brain sharp. Lack of sleep does not allow the body to rejuvenate and can put you at higher risk for weight gain by affecting hormone levels.
Unhealthy and harmful habits can contribute to the development of many chronic diseases and illnesses. Overusing alcohol and smoking are two habits that can negatively impact men’s health, while risky sexual behavior puts men at risk for infectious diseases. Regular wellness checks are a good way to measure whether a man’s lifestyle is benefiting his overall health. Screening tests and checks such as blood glucose and lipid panel testing allow doctors to look for certain diseases or risk factors before symptoms become severe. Vaccinations are another form of preventive treatment, and immunizations can help protect you from potentially severe or fatal diseases. Reducing stress and having a strong social network are also important. Set aside some daily or weekly time to relax and unwind; participate in activities such as gardening, reading, cooking, or walking. This will lower your blood pressure and heart rate and reduce stress. Having strong friendships and a good support system can also improve men’s health. Being around others can improve mood, reduce stress, make life more fulfilling, and help the body stay healthier. Finding a support group or talking with others who are experiencing similar events can help. In addition to healthy habits, men may want to be tested or wellness checked for some of the more common health problems that can affect men. However, if you are going to lead a healthier lifestyle, it is possible that you can reduce your risk. Remember that good lifestyle habits and health screenings are not substitutes for seeing the doctor when needed, so it is critical to establish an ongoing relationship with a healthcare provider.