Men, particularly after the age of 35, face a higher risk of developing chronic illnesses than women. While genetics and ageing play a role, many of these conditions are largely influenced by lifestyle factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, and alcohol use.
The good news? With timely intervention and preventive care, many chronic conditions can be delayed, or even avoided altogether.
Here’s a look at some of the most common chronic diseases affecting men and what can be done to prevent them.
1. Heart Disease
Why it matters:
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men worldwide. It includes conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias.
Risk factors:
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Stress
Prevention tips:
- Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
- Exercise for at least 150 minutes a week
- Get regular health checkups to monitor blood pressure and cholesterol
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
- Manage stress through mindfulness, sleep, and physical activity
2. Type 2 Diabetes
Why it matters:
Often called a “silent disease,” Type 2 diabetes can cause serious complications if left unmanaged, including kidney disease, nerve damage, and cardiovascular issues.
Risk factors:
- Family history
- Overweight or obesity
- Poor diet
- Physical inactivity
- High blood pressure or cholesterol
Prevention tips:
- Maintain normal body weight
- Eat a balanced diet that is not high in refined carbohydrates and sugars
- Be physically active
- Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks
- Have your blood sugar level checked every year, particularly after the age of 40
3. Lung-Related Illnesses (Asthma, COPD, Allergic Bronchitis)
Why it matters:
Lung-related illnesses such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and allergic bronchitis are increasingly common, especially among men exposed to pollution, smoking, or occupational hazards. These conditions can lead to chronic cough, breathlessness, reduced stamina, and long-term respiratory complications, significantly affecting quality of life.
Risk factors:
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
- Long-term exposure to air pollution or industrial chemicals
- Occupational exposure to dust, fumes, or gases
- Family history of asthma or other respiratory illnesses
- Allergies and respiratory infections in childhood
Prevention tips:
- Avoid smoking and stay away from environments with secondhand smoke
- Use masks or protective gear if working in polluted or dusty settings
- Maintain good indoor air quality with ventilation and air purifiers
- Monitor respiratory symptoms and seek early medical advice
- Get periodic lung function tests, especially if you have risk factors or symptoms like persistent cough or breathlessness
4. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Why it matters:
Often symptomless, hypertension is a leading contributor to heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure.
Risk factors:
- High salt intake
- Stress
- Obesity
- Alcohol and tobacco use
- Sedentary lifestyle
Prevention tips:
- Reduce salt and processed food intake
- Exercise regularly
- Monitor your blood pressure at home
- Learn stress management techniques
- Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco
5. Depression and Mental Health Disorders
Why it matters:
Men often underreport mental health issues due to stigma, which can lead to worsening symptoms, substance abuse, or even suicide.
Risk factors:
- Chronic stress
- Loneliness or isolation
- Family history of mental illness
- Substance abuse
Prevention tips:
- Talk openly about your mental health with trusted friends, family, or a professional
- Make time for hobbies and social interactions
- Prioritize sleep and regular exercise
- Do not hesitate to seek therapy or counseling
- Consider regular mental health screenings
6. Cancer (Prostate, Colorectal, Lung)
Why it matters:
Certain cancers are more prevalent in men. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed among cancers.
Risk factors:
- Age-especially after 50
- Family history
- Smoking-for lung cancer
- Low fibre intake and high red meat for colorectal cancer
Prevention tips:
- Get regular screenings-PSA for prostate and colonoscopy for colorectal cancer
- Avoid smoking and second hand smoke
- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fibre
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stay physically active
7. Liver Disease
Why it matters:
Liver diseases such as fatty liver and cirrhosis can be silent until they reach an advanced stage.
Risk factors:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Obesity
- Hepatitis infections
- Use of anabolic steroids
Prevention tips:
- Drink alcohol in moderation or not at all
- Avoid recreational drugs and limit unnecessary medications
- Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B
- Eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight
Chronic diseases don't come overnight. They tend to quietly develop over years, but preventive action can do much to safeguard long-term health. For men, routine health check-ups, early screening, and lifestyle change are some of the key weapons in keeping ahead of chronic disease.
Instead of waiting for symptoms to appear, men should adopt a proactive approach: eat well, move often, sleep enough, manage stress, and consult doctors regularly. Prevention is not just better—it’s smarter, more affordable, and life-saving.
