Men’s health has been a topic of concern over the years, as research has shown that men are less likely to visit the doctor for preventive care compared to women.

This puts men at a higher risk for developing health conditions that can be avoided with early diagnosis and treatment. Here are the top 10 common health risks that men need to watch out for:.

1. Cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular disease, also known as heart disease, is the leading cause of death in men worldwide.

The risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, obesity, lack of physical activity, and family history. To reduce the risk of heart disease, men need to manage these risk factors by adopting a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.

2. Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men, with an estimated one in nine men being diagnosed in their lifetime.

The risk factors for prostate cancer include age, family history, race, and lifestyle factors such as diet and physical activity. Men should talk to their doctor about getting screened for prostate cancer starting at age 50, or earlier if they have a family history or other risk factors.

3. Lung cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide. The risk factors for lung cancer include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and exposure to certain environmental toxins such as radon and asbestos.

Men who smoke should quit, and those who are exposed to secondhand smoke or environmental toxins should take steps to reduce their exposure.

4. Colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men. The risk factors for colorectal cancer include age, family history, diet, physical activity, and certain medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Men should talk to their doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer starting at age 50, or earlier if they have a family history or other risk factors.

5. Type 2 diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The risk factors for type 2 diabetes include obesity, physical inactivity, family history, and certain medical conditions such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol.

Men should adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of developing type 2 diabetes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising, and maintaining a healthy weight.

6. Depression and suicide

Depression and suicide are serious mental health conditions that affect men and women alike. However, men are less likely to seek help for these conditions, which can lead to a higher risk of suicide.

Men should seek help from a mental health professional if they experience symptoms of depression, such as low mood, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness.

7. Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects young men. The risk factors for testicular cancer include age, family history, race, and certain medical conditions such as undescended testicles.

Men should perform regular self-exams to check for any lumps or bumps in the testicles, and should talk to their doctor if they notice any changes.

8. Sexually transmitted infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a common health risk for sexually active men. The risk factors for STIs include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, and use of injectable drugs.

Men should practice safe sex by using condoms and getting tested regularly for STIs.

9. Skin cancer

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. The risk factors for skin cancer include exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, tanning beds, and other sources.

Men should protect their skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen with a high SPF.

10. Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weak and brittle, is more commonly associated with women. However, men can also develop osteoporosis later in life due to factors such as low testosterone levels, smoking, and heavy alcohol consumption.

Men should adopt a healthy lifestyle to reduce their risk of developing osteoporosis, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and getting enough calcium and vitamin D through diet or supplements.