It’s not surprising that men’s health starts to decline around 50. According to the National Institutes of Health, men are affected more seriously than women by several chronic diseases, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and diabetes. Fortunately, many of these men’s health problems can be prevented or reduced with healthy lifestyle choices, such as exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking.
The top health risks for men over 50 are as follows:
Prostate Problems
As men age, they are more likely to develop prostate problems. This can include benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlargement of the prostate, and prostate cancer. While some prostate problems can be minor and may not require treatment, others can be more serious. If you are experiencing any symptoms related to the prostate, it is important to see a doctor right away.
There are a number of treatments available for prostate problems, including medications, surgery, and radiation therapy. Treatment options will vary depending on the severity of the problem and the individual’s health history. It is important to work with a doctor to find the best treatment option for you.
Bladder Cancer
One in six men will be diagnosed with bladder cancer in their lifetime. While bladder cancer can occur at any age, it is most common in men over 50. Smoking and exposure to certain chemicals are the main risk factors for bladder cancer. Symptoms of bladder cancer may include pain when urinating, blood in the urine, and a frequent need to go to the bathroom.
But there are things you can do to help protect yourself. First, see your doctor for regular checkups. Early detection is key to beating bladder cancer.
Second, make healthy choices when it comes to your diet and lifestyle. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Exercise regularly, and try to maintain a healthy weight.
Incontinence
According to the National Institute on Aging, one in three men experiences some form of urinary incontinence by the time they reach age 60. For men over 50, this number jumps to two in three. While many men feel embarrassed or ashamed to talk about their condition, incontinence is a common problem that can be treated.
There are a number of things you can do to help manage your incontinence and improve your quality of life. First, make sure you are drinking enough fluids each day. Staying hydrated will help keep your bladder healthy and reduce the risk of leaks. Second, exercise regularly. A strong pelvic floor is a key to preventing leaks.
Testicular Problems
As men age, they are more likely to experience problems with their testicles. These problems can include cancer, infection, and infertility.
The most common type of testicular cancer is seminoma, which arises from the cells in the testicle that produce sperm. Other types of testicular cancer include non-seminoma tumors and teratomas.
Testicular cancer can often be treated successfully if it is caught early. Symptoms of the disease include a lump or swelling in the testicle, pain or discomfort in the scrotum, and changes in the size or shape of the testicles.
Impotence/Erectile Dysfunction
The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines impotence as “the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.”
There are many causes of impotence, including physical and psychological factors. Physical causes can include diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure; injuries to the penis or prostate; and side effects of medications. Psychological factors can include stress, anxiety, and depression.
Treatment for impotence depends on the cause. If the cause is physical, treatment may include medications such as Viagra, Cialis, or Levitra. If the cause is psychological, treatment may include counseling or therapy.
