As men get older, their health risk increases making it crucial to give top priority to, health management. Post 40 years of age, some health risks are more likely to occur because of natural biological alterations, hormonal imbalances, genes, and lifestyle habits, according to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic. Knowing about these risks and adopting preventive steps is key to enhancing quality of life and longevity. The following are the top 4 health risks men experience after 40, with some tips on how to prevent them.
1. Heart Disease
Heart disease is among the foremost causes of death in men above 40. With increasing age, there is greater susceptibility to heart ailments, such as heart attack, coronary artery disease, and heart failure. These can be compounded by high blood pressure, cholesterol, smoking, and physical inactivity.
Prevention Tips:
- Eat healthy: Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can decrease cholesterol and blood pressure.
- Regular exercise: Exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help towards a healthy heart by improving circulation and maintaining a healthy weight.
- Check BP and cholesterol frequently: Regular checkups of blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help detect early warning signs of heart disease, allowing for early intervention.
2. Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is increasingly prevalent in men above the age of 40. Poor diet and insulin resistance lead to diabetes. When blood glucose levels are constantly elevated, the risk of health problems, including nerve damage, kidney disease, and heart disease, also rises.
Prevention Tips:
- Exercise regularly: Physical activity in different forms like walking or exercises assists in regulating blood sugar and enhancing insulin sensitivity.
- Assess weight: Living with a normal weight, particularly in the abdominal area, lowers the risk of diabetes.
- Consider balanced diets: Emphasize whole foods and restrict processed sugars, instead go for fiber-containing foods to stabilize blood sugar.
3. Prostate Issues
Prostate issues, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer have become increasingly prevalent with age in men. BPH, which is a form of enlarged prostate, may lead to urinary issues, while prostate cancer is one of the most widespread cancers in men aged over 40 years.
Prevention Tips:
- Routine screenings: Early detection by routine prostate checks along with PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) tests can detect prostate problems early.
- Healthy diet: Incorporating foods high in antioxidants, such as tomatoes, and omega-3 fatty acids, available in fish like salmon, can reduce the risk of prostate issues.
- Exercise: Physical activity regularly has been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer.
4. Sexual Health Issues
Shifts in sexual function changes can be a major cause of great concern in men aged above 40. The issues can include erectile dysfunction (ED) and low libido. According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, sexual dysfunction could be caused by physical conditions like heart disease, diabetes, hormonal disturbances, psychological issues such as stress or anxiety, and drug side effects.
Prevention Tips:
- Consult doctors: Nothing to feel hesitant to discuss sexual health with doctors as it helps recognize the underlying reasons and treat them at an early stage.
- Lifestyle modifications: Bringing lifestyle modifications including, diet habits, physical activity, stress management, and sleep patterns is vital to improving testosterone levels. Also, avoid using testosterone booster supplements.
- Open communication with partners: Having honest and clear communication with partners can be instrumental to addressing sexual health concerns and forming healthy relationships.
To conclude, although aging is associated with unavoidable physical modifications, it is significant for men above 40 to take steps to control their health proactively. Following the above preventive measures can help lower these prevalent health ailments, and live a healthier and longer life.
Pooja Sharma