Recent research suggests a correlation between men’s tendency to neglect their health and the escalating rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Heart-related problems such as heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension, as well as conditions like diabetes, fatty liver, and sexual dysfunction, are on the rise. Poor dietary choices, lack of exercise, chronic stress, and infrequent medical checkups are identified as key factors contributing to this alarming trend.
Regular Check-ups
Medical professionals emphasize the importance of regular health check-ups to catch early signs of cardiovascular issues. Early detection and management can significantly reduce the risk of severe health complications. Men are encouraged to undergo routine screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and other critical indicators of heart health.
Rising CVDs
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- Sedentary Lifestyle: A lack of physical activity has become a significant contributor to cardiovascular diseases. Jobs that require long hours of sitting, coupled with leisure activities like excessive screen time, have led to reduced physical activity levels.
- Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium, combined with low consumption of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, are major factors in the development of cardiovascular diseases.
- Chronic Stress: The fast-paced modern lifestyle, job pressures, and personal challenges often lead to chronic stress, which significantly increases the risk of heart problems.
- Other Risk Factors: Existing health conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes, along with smoking, alcohol consumption, and obesity, further exacerbate the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Lifestyle Changes for Better Health
Experts suggest several lifestyle changes to improve heart health. Adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can make a substantial difference. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, for at least 30 minutes a day, is also crucial. Additionally, managing stress through mindfulness practices, yoga, or hobbies can help lower the risk of heart disease.
Mental Health and Its Impact
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Mental health is another critical aspect of overall well-being that often gets overlooked. Depression, anxiety, and stress can negatively impact cardiovascular health. Men are encouraged to seek support for mental health issues and not shy away from discussing their problems with healthcare providers.
Raising Awareness
International Men’s Health Week aims to raise awareness about these issues and encourage men to take proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle. Various organizations conduct seminars, workshops, and health camps to educate men about the importance of maintaining good health and provide resources to help them achieve it.
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About ‘International Men’s Health Week’
International Men’s Health Week, a global observance dedicated to improving men’s well-being, started as an international initiative in 2002 during the 2nd World Congress on Men’s Health in Vienna, Austria. However, its roots trace back to 1994 when Dr. Thomas O. Loughlin at Missouri State University initiated it in the USA.
The week is strategically linked to Father’s Day, always concluding on the third Sunday of June, and serves as a reminder to focus on the unique health challenges faced by men. The exact dates of the observance change from year to year, but it always takes place during the week leading up to and including Father’s Day, which typically falls in mid-June. In 2024, it was celebrated from June 10th to June 16th.
![International Men’s Health Week _ Rising Heart disease in Men](https://cdn.emiratitimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/17162136/International-Mens-Health-Week-_-Rising-Heart-disease-in-Men-4.jpg)
The primary goals of this week are to raise awareness about men’s health issues, educate the public on how to improve men’s health outcomes and provide free and convenient health services to men who may lack access to regular care. This is achieved through a week-long observance, with active participation from governors of US states and territories, and mayors of major cities.
Since its international inception in 2002, the movement has spread to numerous countries worldwide, including the UK, Australia, Canada, and many others. The week is not governed by a single entity, allowing for diverse organizations to participate in tailoring activities like health screenings and awareness campaigns to address the specific needs of their communities.
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