On average, men in the United States die seven years younger than women. They have higher death rates for all 10 of the leading causes of death below. We’ve reached the point where men’s health problems and early mortality have been accepted as an unfortunate part of life… but it doesn’t have to be this way. Empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your health. We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 causes of death for men below, and what you can do for preventative care.
Small steps today can protect your future.
Have a primary care provider and see them regularly to schedule check-ups, screenings, and adopt healthier habits. Your health matters!
The Top 10 Silent Killers You Need to Know
Heart Disease
What it is:
A range of heart conditions, often due to high blood pressure and cholesteral.
What you can do:
Eat heart-healthy foods, stay active, manage your weight, and monitor your blood pressure regularly.
Stroke
What it is:
A sudden disruption in blood flow to the brain. Depriving it of oxygen and nutrients.
What you can do:
Control your blood pressure and cholesterol, manage diabetes, and stay physically active.
Accidents
What it is:
Accidental deaths and unintended injuries, including motor vehicle accidents and falls.
What you can do:
Wear your seatbelt, avoid risky behaviors, and stay alert.
Respiratory Diseases
What it is:
Lung conditions like COPD and asthma are often worsened by smoking or air pollution.
What you can do:
Quit smoking, avoid pollutants, and get lung function tests.
Cancer
What it is:
Uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, with prostate and lung cancer being the most common among men.
What you can do:
Get regular screenings, avoid smoking, and maintain a healthy diet.
Diabetes
What it is:
A disease where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar. Can be influeced by genetics, environment and lifestyle.
What you can do:
Maintain a healthy diet, monitor blood sugar levels, take your meds (if prescribed) and exercise regularly.
Suicide & Homicide
What it is:
Death by violence to oneself or another person. Largely provoked by mental health disorders; disproportianlately affects men of color.
What you can do:
Support safe communities, seek conflict resolution and suicide prevention resources, and advocate for justice.
HIV/AIDS
What it is:
A virus that weakens the immune system to the point that something as simple as the common cold can cause death.
What you can do:
Stop the spread. Use protection during sex, get tested regularly, seek treatment if needed. Follow other physician instructions.
Kidney Disease
What it is:
Damaged kidneys can’t filter blood properly, often linked to diabetes, high blood pressure and heart related issues.
What you can do:
Control your blood pressure and cholesterol, manage diabetes, and stay physically active.
Liver Disease
What it is:
The body struggles to regulate blood sugar. Mainly caused by obesiety, excessive alcohol use, and hepititis.
What you can do:
Maintain a healthy diet, monitor blood sugar levels, limit alcohol intake, and exercise regularly.