When it comes to men and women, they should be treated equally on all levels. However, when it comes to biology and healthcare, both genders differ from each other because of specific anatomical differences. While it is necessary that men and women actively strive to look after themselves. In some cases, men need to monitor their health more vigilantly than women because they’re susceptible to certain illnesses. No one likes falling sick, and the thought of catching a severe disease is enough to put any individual on high alert. Therefore, as a man, try watching out for these conditions and get timely help for them if you can.
1. Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that can impact the lungs, abdomen, heart, and testicles. Most prevalent mesothelioma cases occur in the lungs, making it increasingly complex and painful to deal with. The primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. This mineral is a common ingredient in most building materials, military weapons, and household items like tiles.
Over 70% of mesothelioma patients are men. While there is no scientific explanation for why men more than women get mesothelioma in their lungs, abdomen, and heart, it is assumed that because most construction workers and military officials are men, it puts them in a vulnerable position. The symptoms of mesothelioma depend on where the cancer is located and how far it spreads.
Online resources like www.mesotheliomahope.com can provide a more insightful explanation of the prevalence of mesothelioma and how it feels to have this illness along with dealing with its symptoms. Generally, an individual with pleural mesothelioma or lung cancer may feel a sharp pain in their chest, feel breathless and experience dry and frequent coughing. As mesothelioma comprises tumor cells, the only way to treat this ailment is through surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Most mesothelioma cases get detected decades after exposure; as a patient, you may first learn about your diagnosis well into your sixties.
2. Heart Disease
Around 24% of men die from heart disease compared to women. There are many reasons why men seem to take the lead when it comes to ailments related to the heart. These include poor lifestyle choices, higher indulgence in alcohol and cigarettes, and a more sedentary take on life. Until 45, most men are also likely to have high blood pressure. All of these factors collectively weaken the heart and block blood vessels.
Once blood vessels start getting blocked by fatty deposits or tar from cigarettes, it gets harder for blood to flow and circulate through the body. Narrow spaces can also cause blood clots to get stuck, leading to a stroke or a heart attack if the coronary artery gets blocked, which is the main supply to the heart.
Men with heart disease may start feeling a deep pain in their chest, become fatigued, and have a heart attack. The only way out is to get treated for blocked arteries, embrace a more active life and choose a lifestyle that is far more healthy than consuming fat-rich meals.
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3. Skin Cancer
After age 50, men are at a higher risk of skin cancer. This is because men are far more exposed to the sun than women because of their choice of clothing, short hair that doesn’t protect ears, and lack of using sunscreen. In addition, in some cases, certain men have jobs that require them to go directly under the sun. This includes becoming construction workers or driving trucks across state lines.
As a result, they may spend more than 10 hours a week in the sun with no breaks in between. The scalp and the ears are the two most common places where men get cancer. The only way forward is to wear a cap that you can extend to your ears to prevent the sunlight from directly hitting these sensitive areas. If you have a family history of skin cancer, you may be at risk of getting this illness. So it would help to talk to your GP, get a screening test, and determine your chances of getting skin cancer.
4. ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis)
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a condition that impacts the nervous system forcing nerve cells to die faster than they should. As a result, the loss of nerve cells makes it hard for men to control their limbs, like their arms and legs, and they may need a wheelchair to move. Gradually, muscle mass becomes weaker, and the person with ALS may no longer stand on their feet.
ALS also drastically reduces life expectancy. While some men may live to see the next decade, most pass within five years or less. There are almost 30,000 people in the US with ALS. From these stats, about 60% of them are men. Most patients may need intense occupational therapy, physical therapy, and even check in with a psychologist to get some semblance of control in their lives.
5. Prostate Cancer
According to a report by the CDC, almost 101 men per every 100,000 were diagnosed with prostate cancer. This is a small walnut-shaped gland that produces seminal fluid. The treatment for this disease involves chemo and radiation, which can be painful. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, check in with your doctor immediately.
Final Thoughts
As men, you’re constantly at risk of coming down with an ailment or disease that is not common in women. Therefore it’s crucial that you start looking after yourself well and don’t hesitate when you need a doctor. Common health problems include getting mesothelioma, heart conditions, and skin cancer.
You are also susceptible to ALS and prostate cancer, which can take a massive toll on you. The only way to avoid these ailments is to look after yourself, get early screening exams, and follow a healthy lifestyle. If these diseases are in your genetic makeup, talk to your doctor about how you can manage the symptoms. Don’t delay getting treated since this decreases your chances of making a full recovery.