A changing lifestyle is putting humans at risk of various health issues. And one of the impacted factors is cardiac health. Cardiac problems are one of the most common issues plaguing mankind. Men are prone to greater damage than women. Also, certain statistics estimate men face a double risk of heart attack than women. And men experience cardiac issues nearly ten years earlier than the opposite sex. Heart disease is a major worry for men all around the world. The emergence of heart problems in men is an important topic for various reasons. Understanding the risk factors for heart disease in males, such as lifestyle, genetics, and stress, is critical for prevention and early intervention. The purpose of this conversation is to bring light on the unique problems males experience when it comes to heart health, highlighting the significance of knowledge, prevention, and proactive efforts to keep a strong and healthy heart.
In this article, let's explore the science behind these statistics. Also, certain changes men need to adopt to safeguard their heart health.
Men's Factors and Heart Health
Testosterone Levels
Testosterone is the very hormone that gives men their traits, whether it is their voice or their bulky muscles. In general, the normal physiological levels of testosterone don't trigger heart issues. However, it is important to note that adults who use testosterone and other steroids to increase their athletic activities invite cardiac risks.
The heart Muscles
It is known that the cardiac myocytes remain the same until puberty in both sexes. And the actual changes begin post-puberty. A number of changes occur, such as a rise in the cardiac myocytes and an increase of 15–30% in the heart mass of males. In later advanced age, the heart's mass begins to revert. On average, nearly one gram of loss is observed each year. In comparison, women show preservation against such changes. It points out the fact that, indeed, men's heart muscle build can make their hearts comparatively weaker than women's.
Lifestyle Factors
One cannot put all the blame on the heart's physiology and hormones. Rather, in a considerable number of cases, men's behavioral approach impacts cardiac health. Several lifestyle factors interlink to damage the heart in men.
Stress majorly hampers the body's response to external dangers. And it ultimately leads to higher blood pressure and cardiac issues.
Smoking regularly is harmful as it exposes tobacco and tar to the body. Due to their oxidizing nature, they injure various heart functions.
Alcohol seems to be linked to higher blood pressure. And with time, a continuous higher range of blood pressure strains heart muscles.
Sedentary routines are one of the factors ruining men's heart health. Research suggests men who spend a minimum of ten hours driving a car have an 82% higher probability of heart disease. In contrast, men who spend less than four hours on such activities have a reduced risk.
How can men protect their hearts?
With the help of certain positive changes, you can put the cardiac risks on hold. So, do not delay putting your lifestyle on track.
A healthy diet is a way to avoid many health risks. Adapt a diet rich in fresh vegetables and fruits. Also, uncheck processed foods and high-sugar diets.
Quit smoking and alcohol, or at least start by limiting their continuity in your life. Since both of these activities raise blood pressure, they weaken the heart. It is suggested that men restrict themselves to two alcoholic drinks a day.
Exercise helps you burn calories. Additionally, it can strengthen the heart and thereby improve blood flow.
Obesity is an open door to several diseases. Higher weight triggers cholesterol and blood pressure. Since they are intermediaries in cardiac damage, it is always better to establish a healthy weight.
Stress is the prime culprit that triggers other evils, such as smoking or alcohol. So look into stress management and make it a part of your coping mechanism. Regularly engage in yoga or meditation to preserve your state of mind.
Besides these lifestyle links, certain health conditions, such as diabetes, higher cholesterol, and high blood pressure, damage heart vessels and nerves. So, keep their levels under check for a healthy heart.
Conclusion
After the onset of puberty, humans undergo certain cardiac changes. And with the advancement of age in men, there is a gradual loss of heart mass. And it needs special attention from men to cope with it. Besides, men around the world opting for unhealthy lifestyles only worsen their cardiac health. All these factors act together, leading to heart damage far earlier than in natural conditions. To prevent this, men must avoid triggering events in their lifestyle. And opt for heart-friendly activities such as a healthy diet and exercise.
Sources Used for References
Written By: Sameena
Edited By: Chirajita Gupta