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How to Beat the Big Five Causes of Death in Men

In the UK, men face significantly higher rates of premature death compared to women, with 40% of men dying before the age of 75 compared to 26% of women. Shockingly, one in five men dies before reaching 65. The major causes of these deaths include heart and circulation problems, cancer, respiratory diseases, liver disease, and stress or mental health issues. Here’s a breakdown of these key threats and actionable steps to reduce your risk.


1. Help Your Heart

Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, is a leading cause of death in men. With obesity on the rise, it’s crucial to take steps to maintain a healthy heart.

Steps to Protect Your Heart:

  • Adopt a Heart-Healthy Lifestyle: Ensure you’re getting fresh air, eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
  • NHS Screening:
    • If you’re over 40, book an NHS health check to assess your risk of heart attack or stroke.
    • Men over 65 should attend AAA (abdominal aortic aneurysm) screening to detect life-threatening aorta swellings.

Early Warning System:

Erectile dysfunction (ED) can be an early sign of heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes. Don’t ignore it—visit your GP to address both ED and its underlying cause.


2. Reduce Your Cancer Risk

Men are 56% more likely to develop cancer and 67% more likely to die from it compared to women. Prostate, lung, and bowel cancers account for over half of cancer cases in men.

How to Lower Your Risk:

  • Know the Symptoms:
    Be vigilant for unexplained bleeding, weight loss, lumps, persistent coughs, or changes in moles. If you notice these symptoms, see your GP immediately.
  • Stay Active:
    Exercise is a key preventive measure. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking or cycling. Staying active can cut your risk significantly.
  • Stop Smoking: This remains the single best way to reduce your cancer risk.

3. Look After Your Liver

Liver disease is a growing problem, with alcohol, obesity, and viral infections like hepatitis as primary causes. Men are twice as likely as women to die from liver disease.

Protect Your Liver:

  • Limit Alcohol Consumption: Stick to a maximum of 14 units per week, and take alcohol-free days regularly.
  • Use Protection: Reduce your risk of hepatitis by using condoms, avoiding shared needles, and staying up to date on vaccinations, especially when traveling.

4. Breathe More Easily

Respiratory diseases like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are major killers in men. COPD alone accounts for a significant portion of deaths.

Reduce Your Risk:

  • Quit Smoking: Smoking is the leading cause of respiratory disease. Stopping now can dramatically improve your lung health.
  • Stay Active: Regular exercise supports lung function and overall respiratory health.

5. Beat Stress

Stress and mental health issues contribute to many health problems, including self-harm and suicide. Suicide is the leading cause of death in men under 35, with men accounting for 75% of all suicides.

Manage Stress:

  • Identify Your Stressors: Understand what triggers your stress and focus on managing your reaction to it.
  • Find Your Stress Busters: Activities like exercise, hobbies, spending time with friends, or volunteering can boost mental well-being.
  • Connect and Talk: Talking about your feelings—whether with friends, family, or a professional—can help alleviate stress and improve mental health.

Final Tips:

  • Routine Health Checks: Regular GP visits and health screenings can detect potential issues early.
  • Be Proactive: Don't ignore symptoms of physical or mental health problems. Seek help promptly—early intervention saves lives.

Taking control of your health by addressing these five key areas can significantly improve your quality of life and help you live longer. Don’t wait—start today!

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