5 Common Men’s Health Issues and How to Prevent Them
Author: Dr. Kolin, Doctor Of Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine
Men’s health often receives less attention than it deserves, particularly in preventive care. Many men delay medical visits until symptoms become advanced, which contributes to a higher burden of preventable illness and decreased longevity. However, with a proactive and integrative approach, many of the most common health concerns in men can be effectively managed or even prevented. Below are five key areas of concern in men’s health, along with evidence-based strategies to support long-term wellness and resilience.
1. Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death among men worldwide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in four male deaths in the United States each year is attributed to heart disease (CDC – Heart Disease Facts). Risk factors include elevated blood pressure, high cholesterol, tobacco use, poor diet, and physical inactivity. Silent progression is common, making prevention essential.
Prevention Strategies:
Adopt a heart-healthy diet: Prioritize whole foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like omega-3s.
Engage in regular exercise: At least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week lowers blood pressure and cholesterol.
Limit alcohol and stop smoking: Both increase risks of stroke, hypertension, and heart failure.
Holistic health approaches: Practices like meditation, acupuncture, and stress management therapies can reduce cortisol and lower heart disease risk.
2. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, especially over the age of 50. The American Cancer Society estimates that 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer during their lifetime (American Cancer Society – Prostate Cancer Facts). Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes, but many men avoid screenings.
Prevention Strategies:
Screening and early detection: Men over 45 should discuss PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing with their physicians.
Balanced diet: A diet rich in tomatoes, cruciferous vegetables, and green tea may reduce risk.
Weight management: Obesity is linked with a higher likelihood of aggressive prostate cancer.
Holistic healthcare: Working with holistic health practitioners can support physical health through diet planning, stress management, and integrative therapies.
3. Type 2 Diabetes
Rates of type 2 diabetes continue to rise, particularly among men with sedentary lifestyles and excess abdominal weight. The World Health Organization estimates that over 400 million individuals globally live with diabetes, with men at greater risk for complications including cardiovascular disease, kidney dysfunction, and neuropathy (WHO – Diabetes).
Prevention Strategies:
Weight control: Maintaining a healthy body mass index reduces risk.
Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar and improves insulin sensitivity.
Healthy nutrition: Limit refined sugars and processed foods, focusing instead on whole grains, legumes, and vegetables.
Stress and sleep management: Poor sleep and chronic stress are linked to insulin resistance, making holistic health practices like therapy, meditation, and acupuncture valuable.
4. Mental Health Disorders
Despite growing awareness, men continue to underreport symptoms of depression, anxiety, and emotional distress. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide rates among men remain nearly four times higher than among women (NIMH – Men and Mental Health). Cultural expectations around masculinity and self-reliance often hinder open conversations about mental well-being.
Prevention Strategies:
Open communication: Encouraging men to discuss feelings with healthcare providers, friends, or therapists reduces stigma.
Regular physical activity: Exercise improves mental health by reducing stress hormones and increasing endorphins.
Holistic therapies: Acupuncture, mindfulness, and meditation provide non-invasive support for mental wellness.
Professional therapy: Seeking therapy or counseling early can prevent long-term complications.
5. Obesity
Obesity is a central contributor to numerous chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, sleep apnea, joint dysfunction, and certain cancers. According to the CDC, more than 40 percent of adults in the United States meet criteria for obesity, and men are affected at similar rates to women.
Prevention Strategies:
Balanced eating patterns: Focus on nutrient-rich foods and portion control rather than restrictive dieting.
Consistent exercise routine: Strength training and cardio combined are most effective for weight management.
Behavioral therapy: Counseling and group wellness programs help build accountability.
Holistic health support: Collaborating with holistic health practitioners in San Diego and beyond can provide integrative strategies for sustainable weight loss and improved overall wellness.
Prioritizing Men’s Health with Holistic Care
Men face unique health challenges, but with proactive measures, many conditions can be prevented or managed effectively. Cardiovascular disease, prostate cancer, diabetes, mental health disorders, and obesity remain leading concerns, but men who commit to early screenings, balanced nutrition, exercise, and integrative therapies are more likely to enjoy long-term wellness. Taking men’s health seriously requires both medical care and a holistic health approach that addresses physical health, emotional well-being, and lifestyle balance.
Take Action with Saffron & Sage
At Saffron & Sage, our team is committed to helping men take a proactive role in their health. Our integrative care model brings together the best of conventional diagnostics and holistic therapies, including acupuncture, lifestyle medicine, nutrition planning, and therapeutic coaching. Whether you are focused on disease prevention, optimizing performance, or navigating a specific health concern, we offer evidence-based strategies that support whole-person wellness.
Contact us today at 619-933-2340 to schedule a consultation and learn how holistic health can help you take control of your well-being.