6 Men's Health Facts & Tips to Stay Healthy

Ready to prioritize your well-being? Learn 6 important men's health facts including practical tips for preventing heart disease and cancer.

Data suggests that fewer men go to the doctor compared to women. Many men tend to put off doctor visits or ignore health concerns. Yet, taking charge of your health is powerful—not just for you, but for your family too.

Investing in your health takes time and effort, and it's a valuable commitment to your overall well-being. When it comes to your health, your choices and actions can make a significant difference. We encourage you to collaborate with your health care provider and care team to support your health goals. Here are six surprising facts about men's health and some tips that may help lower the risk for developing disease while promoting overall health and wellness:

1. Compared to women, men are more likely to be overweight

Men are often more likely to carry excess weight than women. This extra weight raises your risk for serious conditions like diabetes and heart disease. As a man, you can even develop type 2 diabetes at a lower weight compared to women. 

Determining your body mass index (BMI) is a great first step. This tool uses your weight and height to estimate body fat. A healthy BMI is usually between 18.5 and 24.9. A BMI of 25-29.9 is considered overweight, and 30 or higher is obese. You can use a simple online tool to calculate your BMI and see where you stand. Remember, BMI is a helpful starting point but doesn't diagnose health conditions. Always talk to your doctor about your BMI and overall weight management, including weight loss if appropriate.

2. Men are twice as likely to have hearing loss

It's a fact: men are twice as likely as women—especially between ages 20 and 69—to experience hearing loss. This higher risk often comes from previous career and lifestyle choices. If hearing problems are ignored, they can get worse over time.

If your hearing isn't as good as it used to be, it's important to see a doctor. Your family doctor can often diagnose and treat common hearing issues, or they may refer you to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Most providers recommend a hearing check at 50 and regular assessments as needed.

3. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men

Even with recent improvements, heart disease, also known as cardiovascular disease, is still the leading cause of death for men. While you can't change some risk factors like your genes, there's a lot you can control to lower your risk. 

To protect your heart, aim for a healthy weight and choose foods low in unhealthy fats—like saturated and trans fats—and salt. High blood pressure is a major risk for heart disease. Make sure to quit smoking, drink alcohol in moderation, and stay active. These steps can help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

4. Men under 55 are more prone to hypertension than women

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, refers to a higher than normal blood pressure. Blood pressure can change during the day, but if it stays above 139/89 mmHg for too long, it may be a sign of hypertension. 

Men under 55 are more likely to develop hypertension than women. Since this condition often has no symptoms, regular blood pressure checks are the only way to know your risk.

5. Men have a 1 in 2 chance of developing cancer during their lifetime

It's important for men to know they have a higher likelihood of developing cancer during their lifetime—about a 1 in 2 chance. Experts have long believed that traditional factory jobs, where toxins are common, can contribute to their higher risk. 

To catch cancer early, it's advised to get screened for prostate, lung, and colon cancer between ages 45-50. Talk to your doctor right away if you notice worrying changes like difficulty peeing or swallowing, blood in your stool, or unexplained weight loss.

6. Men are more likely to develop mouth cancer

Mouth cancer rates are higher for men, largely because men have historically smoked more than women. Poor oral hygiene also plays a role. To reduce your risk, experts recommend:

• Flossing often and brushing at least twice a day.
• Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol use.

Prioritizing Health: Prevention & Next Steps

Being a man with a higher risk for certain serious diseases doesn't mean you can't be proactive about your health. Taking steps now is key to your long-term well-being.

When to see your doctor:

• If you're under 65 and have chronic health conditions: Plan to visit your doctor once a year.
• If you're a healthy adult (ages 25-64): While you might not need yearly checkups, it's still smart to see your doctor every two years.

Your doctor can help you monitor your weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. Make an appointment for a physical exam with your Dignity Health primary care provider today and stay up to date with your vaccines.