Men seem to start life on a strong note—statistically, more boys are born than girls. But as life progresses, the tables turn. Research shows that by the end of life, men are often outlived by women, who typically survive their spouses by an average of five years.
Health-wise, men face tougher odds. Whether it’s due to biological factors, the nature of their jobs, or simply neglecting their own well-being, many men put their health on the back burner.
Let’s be honest—if you’re giving more attention to your car or favorite gadget than to your body, you’re not alone. A lack of awareness, limited health education, and unhealthy lifestyle choices are all contributing to a global decline in men’s health.
Every man has his own reasons for how he manages (or mismanages) his health. But imagine the difference it could make if men became more informed about their health risks and took preventive steps early in life.
Here’s the good news: most of the leading health risks for men can be prevented, managed, or treated—especially if caught early. In this article, we’ll break down the top five health threats facing men today, and what you can do about them.
# Cardiovascular Disease
One in three men will face some form of cardiovascular disease. About 1.8 million men suffer strokes each year, and high blood pressure is increasingly common—even among younger men.
Heart disease can be deadly if not detected in time. Regular checkups are essential for tracking heart health. Speak with your doctor to assess your risk factors, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and smoking habits.
# Respiratory Disease
More men are being diagnosed with lung cancer than ever before. While workplace exposure to asbestos plays a role, smoking remains the top cause.
If you’ve been smoking for decades, consider getting a low-dose CT scan to screen for lung cancer. What starts as a harmless smoker’s cough can turn into a serious respiratory illness like COPD, emphysema, or lung cancer.
The best move? Quit smoking—it’s never too late to reduce your risk.
# Alcohol: A Hidden Threat
Men are twice as likely as women to binge drink and face higher rates of alcohol-related illnesses and deaths. Alcohol increases the risk of several cancers—mouth, throat, liver, colon—and can also impair testicular function, cause hormonal imbalances, and lead to infertility.
Alarmingly, men are more likely to die by suicide, and alcohol often plays a role. While women attempt suicide more often, men are more likely to complete it. Mental health, particularly depression, is a key factor.
Depression isn’t just “feeling low”—it’s a serious condition that affects your entire well-being. The good news is that treatment works. If you’re struggling, reach out to a doctor or someone you trust. There’s strength in seeking help.
# Diabetes
This chronic condition is becoming alarmingly common, and men face unique risks—including lower testosterone levels and increased chances of impotence, anxiety, and depression. Left untreated, diabetes can lead to nerve damage, kidney issues, heart disease, stroke, and vision loss.
Prevention starts with lifestyle changes. Just 30 minutes of daily exercise and moderate weight loss can reduce your risk by more than 50%. Take charge now—your future self will thank you.