Common Health Issues in Men

Australian men account for 49.6 per cent of the population yet are more likely to die from serious non-sex specific health complications and accidents than Australian women. The life expectancy of Australian men is 79 years while women are 84 years - a staggering five-year difference, which is also reflected across other countries.

Men have fewer doctor visits than women and generally hold off visiting their doctor until their illness is severe. This mentality and some lifestyle factors are the major causes of men's lower life expectancy and higher mortality rates. Unfortunately, by the time most men visit their doctor, the illness may be past its treatable stage.

Common Health Issues in Men

Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) or Infections (STI)

STIs and STDs are common amongst men in their 20s and those with multiple sex partners. Many STIs and STDs, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and chlamydia, may show no symptoms for several months or years and are sometimes mistaken as symptoms of the common cold. Some STIs and STDs can be treated with medication while some have no cure to date and must be managed with lifelong antiviral treatments.

The chances of developing an STI or STD can be decreased by practising safe sex and ensuring you and any new sexual partners are tested before engaging in any sexual activity.

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease refers to conditions of the heart and blood vessels and stroke. It is one of the largest killers in Australians and kills one Australian every 12 minutes. Risk factors that increase the chances of developing cardiovascular disease include:

- Sedentary lifestyle

- Smoking

- Unhealthy eating habits

- High blood pressure

- High cholesterol levels

- Smoking

- Excess alcohol consumption

Depression

Depression affects men differently from women, with men reporting higher symptoms of fatigue and irritability. The Australian Bureau of Statistics states that nearly every 1 in 2 Australian males has experienced a mental health problem. Depression is a high-risk factor for suicide. As societal norms view men discussing their feelings as a sign of weakness, most men with depression go undiagnosed. The number of Australian male deaths by suicide every year is significantly higher than the national road toll with 75 per cent of deaths by suicide being male.

Men often determine their self-worth through employment, which can impact their mental health either positively or negatively. A poor working environment and excessive job stress can lead to depression in men, which, according to Beyondblue, makes up for 13% of depression in working men. If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or are at risk of suicide, Australia has 24-hour helplines available:

- Lifeline: 13 11 14

- Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467

- MensLine Australia: 1300 78 99 78

 Men have fewer doctor visits than women and generally hold off visiting their doctor until their illness is severe.

Liver Disease

The liver's main function in the body is to digest nutrients and filter toxic substances out through waste. Men tend to have higher levels of alcohol, drug and tobacco use, which can increase their chances of developing liver disease. Types of liver diseases include:

- Cirrhosis

- Alcoholic Liver Disease

- Viral hepatitis

Alcohol-related

Alcohol consumption is closely intertwined with many Australian social customs. However, excessive drinking can lead to long-term health problems such as heart and liver damage and erectile dysfunction. Driving under the influence of alcohol with just an excess of 0.05 Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) doubles the risk of a fatal crash. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that men are twice as likely more than women to binge drink alcohol and exceed the Australian lifetime risk guideline by a large amount. The first step to treatment for anyone suffering from alcohol abuse or dependency is to reach out to a doctor, counsellor or someone they trust.

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to long-term health problems. 

Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic disease where the body cannot control healthy levels of glucose in the blood. Type 1 diabetes is when the body's immune system attacks the pancreas cells responsible for producing insulin and usually occurs in younger children. Type 2 diabetes is non-insulin dependent and usually occurs in later life because of a poor diet, a lack of physical activity and obesity.

Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of lower testosterone levels and sexual impotence, which can lead to depression or anxiety. Type 2 diabetes may be delayed by adopting a healthier lifestyle and reducing sugar and refined carbohydrate intake. Diabetes can lead to long-term kidney damage, cardiovascular disease and blindness if not properly managed.

Influenza and Pneumonia

Men with a weakened immune system due to diabetes and AIDS are more susceptible to the influenza virus. Influenza symptoms are often mistaken for the common cold because of their similarities and usually cannot be determined unless diagnosed by a health professional. The influenza strains often change and the best way to protect yourself is through yearly vaccinations. Tips to prevent the spread of influenza:

- Stay away from work, public areas, childcare centres and hospitals if you are unwell

- Cough and sneeze into a tissue and throw it into the bin after use

- Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently

Health Direct has a handy guide to identifying the symptoms of the cold and influenza and common myths associated with both.


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Lipa Pharmaceuticals has a range of Men's Health products in our Private Label range, including our Men's Multi tablet, aimed to promote energy levels and enhance general wellbeing.