Top Health Conditions in Aging Men

Common Health Issues in Older Men

Our health changes as we age, leaving us vulnerable to a number of chronic conditions. Yet, men are less likely than women to focus on their health and seek help for many conditions that they face. To inspire men to take control of their health as they age, learn more about the top conditions they may face.

Heart Disease

While adult males can develop the condition at any age, it’s most common in aging men later in life. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to your heart — leading to a heart attack. Other types of heart disease include congestive heart failure and arrhythmias.

The following are some fast facts about heart disease that every man should know:

• Heart disease is the leading cause of death for adults in the United States

• Nearly one out of every three adult males have some form of cardiovascular disease

• Every year, one in four deaths is caused by heart disease

• Throughout life, men are about twice as likely as women to have a heart attack

• For people aged 75 or older, high blood pressure is the most common heart condition

• Men aged 60–79-year are more like to suffer from heart failure

• Men are more likely to have their first heart attack aged 65, compared to women aged 72

Prostate Conditions

As men grow older, their prostate gland becomes vulnerable to a number of conditions, ranging from an enlarged prostate to prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men and the American Cancer Society states that most cases of this condition are found in men aged 65 or older. Additionally, more than 90% of men over age 80 have an enlarged prostate.

Strokes

Lifestyle habits such as smoking or eating too much salt can increase your blood pressure and, therefore, your risk for a stroke. The following are some fast facts about strokes that every man should know:

• 75 percent of strokes occur in people aged 65 or older
• Strokes are the third leading cause of death for men in the United States
• Men are more likely than women to have a stroke
• African American men are especially at risk

Men’s Primary and Specialty Care in Ohio

One of the most important things men can do to protect their health is to see their doctor regularly for recommended health screenings and testing.

Our team at the Southwest General Medical Group, Inc. includes both primary care and specialty care physicians who are committed to providing patients with high-quality medical care. To learn more about our primary and specialty care services or to schedule an appointment, visit our website.