A World Health Organization study reveals that men's hearts and digestive systems are inherently more fragile than women's, with rates of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases several times higher. Additionally, men bear greater societal pressures, posing significant challenges to their mental health. Despite this, most men remain unconcerned about their well-being, repeatedly depleting their health through long-term neglect of harmful habits.
Recently, the American Care Network published an article summarizing eight life-shortening habits that increase men's disease risks. In this issue of Life Times, our reporter interviewed authoritative experts to sound a health alarm for our male readers.
While it's common knowledge that smoking harms the body, many underestimate its severity. Studies show that the longer one smokes, the greater the damage to the lungs. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), caused by smoking, is a major killer among men. Smoking-induced lung cancer accounts for 80%-90% of all lung cancer cases. Additionally, male smokers are more prone to cognitive impairment in old age.Wang Kai advises that besides making a firm commitment to quit, adopting effective strategies is crucial—such as creating an environment where smoking is impractical.
Unhealthy eating habits. Imbalanced nutrition is closely linked to men's leading causes of death: heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Wang Kai notes that men's fast-paced lifestyles and work demands often lead them to consume large amounts of junk food to save time.Neglecting health leads to overeating and excessive drinking, eventually causing weight gain and triggering high blood lipids, hypertension, and hyperglycemia, which can result in multiple diseases. Wang Kai advises developing healthy eating habits, focusing on balanced nutrition, and consuming heart-healthy foods like fish, soy products, nuts, oats, and garlic. He also recommends reducing salt intake and increasing consumption of fruits and vegetables.The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention notes that while women are three times more likely to attempt suicide than men, men have a higher suicide mortality rate. Men account for 79% of all suicide deaths, and after age 65, the male suicide rate is seven times higher than that of women of the same age. Chronic alcohol abuse further elevates suicide risk.Experts advise men to prioritize mental health, learning to manage stress or low moods. They should recognize that symptoms like insomnia, headaches, and poor appetite may signal underlying psychological issues and take them seriously. Actively learning about mental health and cultivating a positive, joyful outlook is also crucial.
Being single. While singles may be called "nobles," this doesn't equate to good health. They are more prone to anxiety and low self-confidence psychologically, and more susceptible to illness physically.Compared to women, single men face greater health risks. A new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology found that single men live 8–17 years less than married men. Another study revealed that after age 50, single men experience accelerated physical decline compared to married men.The British Medical Journal analyzed that marriage helps alleviate stress, reduce depression levels, and prevent various diseases. Unmarried men are more likely to develop harmful habits such as alcoholism, poor diet, avoiding medical care, and promiscuity. Experts advise singles to seek partners whenever possible. If that's not feasible, they should actively participate in uplifting social activities and engage more with others.
Careless driving. Studies reveal accidental injuries are the leading cause of death among men aged 40–44, with men generally experiencing higher accident rates than women. Purdue University research indicates key factors include fatigued driving, speeding, and reckless driving during weekends or late nights.
Excessive screen time. The more time spent gaming, using computers, or smartphones, the less time remains for healthy activities like exercise, sleep, and social interaction. Reduced social engagement increases the risk of depression and cognitive impairment. Men exhibit significantly weaker self-control in this area compared to women, as women often divert attention from screens due to childcare or household responsibilities.
Sedentary lifestyle.Many men rely on cars for transportation and elevators for vertical movement, spending most of their day sitting and remaining largely inactive. Over time, this sedentary lifestyle can lead to chronic conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol, and osteoporosis. Additionally, prolonged sitting is linked to chronic prostatitis in men. Men must change their lifestyle and start exercising. Wang Kai recommends seizing every possible opportunity for physical activity, such as walking instead of driving, taking stairs instead of elevators, and incorporating brief exercises during work breaks.
Neglecting UV protection. Research by the American Academy of Dermatology reveals that men face a higher risk of skin cancer than women—roughly double—due to greater outdoor exposure from work and activities, shorter hair providing less protection, and increased exposure to harmful UV rays.The American Academy of Dermatology also notes that men exhibit weaker self-protection and screening awareness regarding skin cancer. While this issue is less pronounced in China—where overall sun exposure remains relatively low, preventing severe problems like skin cancer—it is common for men to develop cataracts over time from not wearing sunglasses outdoors. It is recommended to protect all body parts during summer when UV rays are intense.