Perhaps it’s no surprise that most men don’t like going to the doctor. But a new study by researchers at the University of Chicago has found that being too “manly” about your health can be life-threatening. Data shows that men’s need to appear empowered and strong keeps them from seeking medical attention, and even when they are diagnosed, they don’t always follow treatment.

Unfortunately, this reluctance has an impact on their longevity. The Office of National Statistics (ONS) reports that 2022 was the third year in a row with more deaths of men than women. And serious conditions, like cardiovascular disease and certain cancers, could have been avoided thanks to earlier intervention.

In the UK, the four leading causes of death for men are generally heart failure, lung failure and prostate cancer and suicide. And while genetics plays a role, there are still many changes you can make to support your well-being and increase your chances of living longer. Here’s how to protect yourself at any age…

In their 30s and 40s

Beware of… feeling depressed or overloaded

It is often a time when men are trying to save their careers, buy property or pay off a mortgage, start a family and maintain relationships. Not only can stress negatively affect your sleep, sex life, immune system, gut health, heart rate and blood pressure, but it can also increase your risk of depression. While other factors come into play – alcohol and substance abuseloneliness, relationship breakdown – in the United Kingdom, suicide is the biggest killer men under 50 years old.

Last year, the British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy (BACP) launched its Raise campaign to help identify depression in men. The acronym, which aims to highlight the five signs of depression, stands for risk taking, anger, isolation, substance abuse and exhaustion.

Anthony Davis, BACP accredited psychotherapist and campaign contributor, says: “There is often pressure on men in these age groups to get everything sorted, professionally and personally. But when they feel they are not fulfilling their potential, depression can set in. And if fathers and grandfathers were not open with their emotions, perhaps feeling that it was unmanly to speak, this example is often passed on to the next generation. When difficult feelings are not expressed, they may manifest as anger, living at risk, or acute anxiety.

The health plan

According to the BACP, 56 percent of therapists agree that men are less likely to get support than women. It helps to talk. Talk to loved ones, a charity like the Samaritans, or a professional therapist. Anthony Davis says: “It is important to express these difficult emotions and bring them to the surface in a trusting environment so they can become more manageable.

Overeatalcohol consumption and a sedentary lifestyle can also be a consequence of stress. Establish good habits to meet your needs. Thibo David, performance coach, adds: “Studies show that exercise reduces anxiety symptoms by 22-48%, building resilience to stress. »

In their fifties and sixties

Beware…prostate cancer, high blood pressure and high cholesterol

No one knows your body like you, so try to spot the warning signs before it’s too late! If anything seems unusual, a follow-up with your GP will usually reassure you and other issues can be investigated. A simple blood test can detect high cholesterol, high blood pressureanemia, poor liver function and diabetes.