Hypertension (also known as high blood pressure) is a common health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Among these, men are more prone to hypertension than women.

In fact, men are more likely to develop hypertension earlier in life and have more severe complications associated with the condition. In this article, we will explore the risk factors that make men more susceptible to hypertension and suggest some practical tips to manage this condition.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a chronic condition characterized by increased blood pressure levels above the normal range. Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of blood vessels, and its normal range is 120/80 mmHg or lower.

Hypertension is diagnosed when the blood pressure readings consistently exceed 140/90 mmHg or higher.

Hypertension is a silent killer, as it often has no visible symptoms in the early stages. However, if left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and vision loss.

Therefore, it is crucial to diagnose and manage hypertension early to prevent complications.

Why are Men More Prone to Hypertension?

The exact reason behind the gender difference in hypertension is not fully understood. However, research suggests that several biological and lifestyle factors contribute to this phenomenon.

Below we discuss some risk factors that make men more susceptible to hypertension:.

Higher Levels of Testosterone

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone that is involved in the development of male reproductive organs, muscle mass, and bone strength. However, high levels of testosterone can also increase blood pressure levels by constricting blood vessels.

Therefore, men with elevated testosterone levels may be at risk of developing hypertension, especially if they have other risk factors such as obesity and diabetes.

Smoking

Smoking is a well-known risk factor for hypertension, heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Men are more likely to smoke than women, which may contribute to the higher prevalence of hypertension among men.

Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the production of free radicals that promote inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can lead to high blood pressure.

Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption is another risk factor for hypertension. Men tend to drink more alcohol than women, and heavy drinking can increase blood pressure levels by affecting the central nervous system and damaging blood vessels.

Therefore, men who consume more than two drinks per day are at higher risk of developing hypertension.

Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for hypertension, as excess body fat can increase blood pressure levels by constricting blood vessels and increasing the workload of the heart.

Men are more likely than women to be overweight or obese, especially around the waist area. Therefore, men with a BMI of 25 or higher are at higher risk of developing hypertension.

Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle is a significant risk factor for hypertension, as physical inactivity can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other metabolic abnormalities that contribute to high blood pressure.

Men are more likely than women to have sedentary jobs, which may contribute to the higher incidence of hypertension among men. Therefore, men should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week to reduce their risk of hypertension.

Stress

Chronic stress is a well-known risk factor for hypertension, as it can trigger the release of stress hormones that increase blood pressure levels.

Men are more likely than women to experience work-related stress, financial stress, and other stressors that contribute to hypertension. Therefore, men should find ways to manage stress, such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, or counseling.

Poor Diet

A poor diet high in salt, saturated fats, and sugar is a significant risk factor for hypertension, as it can lead to obesity, insulin resistance, and other metabolic abnormalities.

Men are more likely than women to consume a diet high in processed foods, fast foods, and sugary drinks, which may contribute to the higher prevalence of hypertension among men. Therefore, men should aim for a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats to reduce their risk of hypertension.

Family History

Hypertension tends to run in families, and men who have a family history of hypertension are at higher risk of developing the condition.

Therefore, men should be aware of their family history and take preventative measures to manage their blood pressure levels.

Aging

Ageing is a natural risk factor for hypertension, as blood vessels become stiffer with age, and the heart takes longer to recover. Men are more likely to develop hypertension at a younger age than women, and the risk increases with age.

Therefore, men should monitor their blood pressure levels regularly as they get older.

Conclusion

Men are more prone to hypertension than women due to a combination of biological and lifestyle factors.

However, hypertension is a preventable and treatable condition, and men can reduce their risk by making healthy lifestyle choices such as quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, managing stress, and eating a healthy diet. Regular blood pressure monitoring, especially for men with a family history of hypertension, is also crucial to prevent complications.