Chronic diseases, also known as noncommunicable diseases, are the leading cause of death worldwide—even though they are largely preventable. These diseases also disproportionately effect men, who are 90 percent more likely to die from a preventable death than women.
Cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases are some of the leading causes of death among men. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to help lower your risk of developing one of these diseases.
Cardiovascular diseases
The facts
A broad term for a group of conditions involving the heart and blood vessels, including
- heart diseases
- heart attack
- stroke
- heart failure
Lower your risk
- reduce alcohol intake
- eat a healthy diet
- stay physically active
- refrain from smoking
- manage stress
Cancer
The facts
Some of the most common types of cancer in men are
- prostate cancer
- lung cancer
- skin cancer
Lower your risk
- maintain a healthy weight
- avoid tobacco use
- exercise regularly
- reduce sun exposure
Diabetes
The facts
A chronic condition resulting in a lack of ability to produce and/or efficiently use insulin.
Type 1:
- often lifelong autoimmune disease
- requires an external source of insulin
Type 2:
- mainly lifestyle related
- develops over time, typically over 40
Lower your risk
- eat a healthy diet
- stay physically active
- maintain a healthy weight
- getting regular diabetes screenings
Chronic respiratory disease
The facts
Conditions that affect the airway and lungs. Some more prevalent chronic respiratory diseases include
- asthma
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- sleep apnea
- cystic fibrosis
Lower your risk
- Abstain from smoking tobacco and avoid second-hand smoke
- stay aware of air pollution
- wash your hands to avoid contracting infectious viruses
Try it!
Are you going to try to make one change? Share with us on Instagram and Facebook @deliciouslivingmag. You’ll find plenty of support within our community of like-minded wellness enthusiasts!
