Men’s Health Issues In Australia
While both men and women are susceptible to various health conditions, some issues affect Australian men differently — and more commonly. Men’s health issues are also largely determined by lifestyle rather than genetics, with Men’s Health Week stating that 70% is attributed to lifestyle choices, while 30% is determined by genetics.
In Australia, the leading causes of death for males is coronary heart disease, lung cancer, dementia including Alzheimer disease, cerebrovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [1]. Coronary heart disease, suicide and motor vehicle accidents are the leading reasons for the reduced lifespan of Australian men [2].
In this COVID-normal environment that we now find ourselves in, it’s never been more important to make sure that your health is in good shape. So, talk to your GP about potential risk factors and suitable lifestyle choices — and take control of your health.
Here’s some simple tips to improving men’s health:
QUIT SMOKING
The good news is that the daily smoking rates have dropped in recent decades. In 1991, smoking was down 25%, and in 2019 it was down a further 11.6%. Quitting smoking not only improves your vitality, it can help reduce your risk of lung cancer, heart attack and stroke. It also helps boost your immune system, so you’re better equipped to fight off infection [3]. Talk to your doctor about quitting today.
WATCH YOUR DRINKS INTAKE
Men generally have a higher risk of developing health problems due to alcohol-attributable diseases. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health problems, including an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, liver disease and bowel cancer [4]. Reducing your alcohol intake can improve your health; with a lower risk of alcohol-related health issues for those who choose to drink less. A general guideline for healthy Australian men (and women) is to have no more than 4 standards drinks on any day, with no more than 10 standard drinks per week [5]
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY BODY WEIGHT
Coronary heart disease is the leading underlying causes of death [1] in Australian men, taking the lives of 10269 men in 2018. There are a range of risks that you can control, including taking better care of your cholesterol, blood pressure, diabetes and weight [6]. Choosing a health diet and maintaining a healthy body weight means that you’re less likely to develop chronic health problems like diabetes, heart disease and certain cancers.
SEEK ADVICE FOR MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS
Tragically, Australian men take their own lives at four times the rate of women. And with the increased demand for mental health services during COVID-19, it’s essential that men speak with healthcare professionals about their mental health. Our practice can assist with Psychologist and Psychiatrist referrals as well as the implementation of mental health care plans. Ask your mates R U OK? and speak to your local mental health care professionals.
TALK TO YOUR GP
Our doctors at Junction Road Family Practice specialise in men’s health, with services including cardiovascular health, mental health, reproductive and sexual health. We can assist with a range of services including dietary advice, quitting, ECGs, referrals to our Psychologist and more.
If you’d like some advice on men’s health, please call Junction Road Family Practice on 07 3857 2799 to schedule your appointment.
* The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any other agency, organization, employer or company.