Health Concerns for Men in Their 50s
Men in their 50s may be as busy as they’ve always been, or they may choose to enjoy their early retirement if this is an option. However, during this time there may be a number of illnesses or diseases developing. This may be a stronger possibility if a man has neglected his health in the past. It is vital that men have a physician they see regularly who can provide them with the health care and advice they need as they grow older. Here is a list of concerns for men in their 50s.
1. Obesity
Obesity increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other illnesses, but may not affect a man’s health until after the age of 40. You owe it to yourself to maintain good and healthy eating habits. Put down that brewski and pick up a glass of water. Ditch the nachos and have a salad instead – your waistline will thank you. Keep physically active to maintain a healthy weight. A 30-minute walk every day will give you significant health benefits and help to maintain energy levels.
2. Stroke
New or reoccurring strokes affect in the ball park of 780,000 Americans every year. Someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. Although age is the primary risk factor, having a stroke increases the probability of future strokes. Individuals most at risk for stroke are older adults, in particular those with high blood pressure, who lead a sedentary lifestyle, and who are overweight, smoke, or have diabetes. So it behooves the man in his 50s to see a physician regularly.
3. High Cholesterol
Improve your eating habits by eating foods low in cholesterol. Eating a diet rich in whole grains, low-fat dairy products, and lean meats is better for you than eating high-fat dairy products and high-fat meats. Whole grains contain a lot of fiber, and low-fat meat and dairy products are low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Eating these foods will reduce high cholesterol.
4. Heart Disease
Eat a healthy diet full of fiber and low in saturated fat. This reduces the risk for heart disease. Stop smoking. Smoking drastically raises the risk of heart disease. It is vital to your heart to eat a healthy balanced diet that is low in cholesterol. Again, try to eat more whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean meats, and don’t forget those leafy greens!
5. High Blood Pressure
Exercise, such as a daily routine of combined strength and cardio training, will help to lower the risk of high blood pressure. If you want to reduce the risk of high blood pressure, do not smoke, reduce your alcohol consumption, and resist the urge to add salt to foods.
6. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the top health risks for men in their 50s and older. See a doctor every year for an annual colonoscopy to check for prostate cancer. This visit may seem a little bit scary, but it is vital to maintain good health.
7. Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction is a common problem in aging men. Erectile dysfunction (ED) can happen to any man, and long-term ED can be treated medically. If a male in his 50s begins to notice frequent occurences of erectile dysfunction, it may be time to schedule an appointment with his physician to determine whether it is age related or something more serious.
This is the time of your life to thrive with family and friends. This can also be great time to take up a hobby, to travel, volunteer, or get involved with your community. Talk to your GP about your family medical history, weight, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, flu shots, bowel cancer screening, prostate exams, etc. As men age, the risk of developing these issues increases. The important thing is to stay active, eat right, exercise and don’t be afraid to see your doctor for fear of hearing bad news. Hesitation could mean an unnecessary worsening of an underlying condition.