Common Diseases That Affect Men
December 24, 2008
How often have we heard men say among themselves, to each other, or in the case of a father scolding his son, to suck it up and act like a man? Well, it is not always good to take it all in and not say a word. Sometimes it is foolishness to do so, especially if you are in pain.
Some diseases seem to have a liking for men because they are commonly seen among men. This article deals with some of these diseases that are as common among men as a love of football.
High blood pressure
Do I have to worry?
Yes, you do have to worry if do not exercise regularly, are overweight and lead a high-stressed life. In addition, if it runs in your family you are at risk. Men in their early 30s and middle aged are also likely to be affected. A study also shows that you are at a greater risk if you are African American rather than Caucasian.
How can I avoid it?
First, take care of your body. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet avoiding all the junk that you love so much. Take proper medication if it runs in your family and you should be able to lead a normal life.
Diabetes
This is said to be the number five killer these days. If the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, it is considered Type 1 diabetes and if the body is not able to use insulin ,it is type 2 diabetes.
Do I have to worry?
You cannot avoid it if you have inherited it. You also need an unhealthy sedentary lifestyle to acquire this disease.
How can I avoid it?
Lead a healthy lifestyle and take proper medication. That is the only way that you can stay away from this disease. This is a self-help disease because it depends upon you to adjust your lifestyle to avoid it.
Colorectal cancer
This involves the growth of polyps (finger-like growths) inside the colon, which then start taking over the body and become cancerous.
Do I have to worry?
High fat, low fiber diets, obesity, alcohol and tobacco use are some of the causes of colorectal cancer. It can also be inherited. If the polyps are detected at an early stage, you can achieve full recovery. Symptoms like constant abdominal pain, constant fatigue, blood in your stool, changes in bowel habits, diarrhea and unintended weight loss are characteristic of this cancer.
How can I avoid it?
You should be on alert and get a colonoscopy regularly once you reach your 40s. You can reduce your risk by avoiding smoking, exercising regularly and keeping to a healthy life-style.
Prostate cancer
When normal prostate cells multiply abnormally, a cancerous tumour or gland is formed.
Do I have to worry?
If you are 65 years old or more, then you should be concerned. It affects men in this age group the most. Most often it remains undetected until it reaches an advanced stage. However, some alarms are blood in urination and frequent stiffness in the back.
How can I avoid it?
The best thing that you can do to avoid this is get regular checkups. The doctor will prescribe necessary tests if applicable.
STDs
These are very common afflictions among men. Sexually transmitted diseases like herpes and Chlamydia are most common among men who are not so careful about their sexual health.
Herpes Simplex 1 is generally cold sores around the mouth and genitalia, but the more common version is Herpes Simplex 2 that is genital herpes and it is not curable.
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection. It affects the genitals, reproductive organs, urinary tract and eyes it is curable.
Do I have to worry?
If you are sexually active and have multiple partners, you may be at risk.
How can I avoid it?
Safe sex is the best way to avoid these diseases. Also, seeing your primary care doctor regularly will help.
Finally, it is important that you care for your body. Keep a keen eye on your normal bodily functions. You can generally detect most of the diseases early, if you are observant.




























