VIA: MayoClinic.Com
No. 1 — Heart disease
Heart disease is a leading men’s health threat. Take charge of heart health by making healthier lifestyle choices. For example:
• Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fiber and fish. Cut back on foods high in saturated fat and sodium.
• If you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.
• Include physical activity in your daily routine.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation. Too much alcohol can raise blood pressure.
• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control.
• Manage stress.
No. 2 — Cancer
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among men — mostly due to cigarette smoking, according to the American Cancer Society. Lung cancer is followed by prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. To prevent cancer:
• Don’t smoke or use other tobacco products. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Include physical activity in your daily routine.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid high-fat foods.
• Limit your sun exposure. When you’re outdoors, use sunscreen.
• If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation.
• Consult your doctor for regular cancer screenings.
• Reduce exposure to potential cancer-causing substances (carcinogens), such as radon, asbestos, radiation and air pollution.
No. 3 — Injuries
The leading cause of fatal accidents among men is motor vehicle crashes, according to the CDC. To reduce your risk of a deadly crash:
• Wear your seat belt.
• Follow the speed limit.
• Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or any other substances.
• Don’t drive while sleepy.
Falls and poisoning are other leading causes of fatal accidents. Take common-sense precautions, such as using chemical products only in ventilated areas, using nonslip mats in the bathtub and placing carbon monoxide detectors near the bedrooms in your home.
No. 4 — Stroke
You can’t control some stroke risk factors, such as family history, age and race. But you can control other contributing factors. For example:
• Don’t smoke.
• If you have high cholesterol or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s treatment recommendations.
• Limit the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet. Try to avoid trans fat entirely.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Include physical activity in your daily routine.
• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control.
• If you choose to drink alcohol, do so only in moderation.
No. 5 — COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of chronic lung conditions, including bronchitis and emphysema. To prevent COPD:
• Don’t smoke. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Minimize exposure to chemicals and air pollution.
Preventing Your Top 10 Threats was originally published on praisecharlotte.com