Plastic Surgery for Men OT: What can men do to live longer?

Years ago, famed comedian Alan King used to entertain audiences with a bit called "Survived by his wife," detailing stories of how wives often outlived their husbands. Information released Monday indicates that little has changed over the years, and men today still live shorter lives than women.

According to the Utah Department of Health, more than 1,700 Utah men ages 19 to 64 will die as a result of cancer, heart disease and unintentional injuries this year.

"It's no surprise that men do take more unnecessary risks than women do (causing men to die earlier)," said Kevin Condra, manager of the health department's violence and injury prevention program. "Primarily, it's motor vehicle related; it is seat belt use, wearing a helmet."

Condra also noted that men are more likely to be involved in physical altercations that result in injury.

In addition, men are more apt to have health issues that shorten their potential lifespan, according to Dr. David Sundwall, the health department's executive director.

"Despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average six years less than women," Sundwall said. "For example, men smoke more, wear seat belts less and don't seek medical help as often. These behaviors can be harmful, but it's never too late for any of us men to step up and make choices that will help us live longer, healthier lives."

Among the high-priority health risks that advocates want more men to work harder at preventing are prostate cancer and heart disease — both of which can be treated or avoided with early diagnosis and screening, said Dr. Steve Gange, president of the Utah Healthy Living Foundation.

"In addition, all men need to get out and be more physically active, eat a better diet and lower their stress levels," Gange added.

Health department data showed that for men ages 18 to 64, injuries were the leading cause of death. In 2008, men were involved in 70 percent of all fatal car crashes, with only 49 percent of victims having worn seat belts.

Cancer was the second-leading cause of death for men with only 68 percent of men 50 years and older having had screening to prevent colon cancer. Cardiovascular disease was the third leading cause of death in 2008, but only 35 percent of men knew the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and just 50 just knew the signs of a stroke, Condra said.

He said men should take a more proactive approach to improving their everyday health, which would yield benefits for years to come.

"If you're a male of any age, just get out and be more active," Condra said. "Exercising the heart no less than three times a week is going to be helpful."

"(Just) look at your behaviors and if those are things that are not going to lead you to a long and healthy life" (like smoking and over-eating), then make the change right away, he said.

"There is no time like the present," Condra said.


How men can improve chances of living longer:

Wear a seat belt every time you are in a vehicle

Wear a helmet when driving or riding on an ATV, bicycle, motorcycle or other motorized vehicle

Get your cholesterol and blood pressure checked, starting at age 35

Talk to your doctor about prostate cancer starting at age 40

Get screened for colon cancer starting at age 50

Quit smoking
resource:   http://www.deseretnews.com/article/700040276/Mens-health-problems-spotlighted.html?pg=1