Common Health Risks Faced By Working Men
(By Dr. Ramesh Kumar)
Working men often face a unique set of health risks that stem from the pressures of balancing career demands with personal and family responsibilities. These risks are not only physical but also deeply psychological and emotional. While the roles and expectations of men have evolved to include greater participation in domestic life and caregiving, these additional responsibilities can take a significant toll on their health. An awareness and understanding of these risks are the first step toward creating a healthier, more balanced life.
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The Mental Health Crisis
One of the most pressing health issues facing working men is mental health. Many men experience chronic stress due to the constant juggling of work deadlines, personal commitments, and financial obligations. This stress, when left unmanaged, can lead to anxiety and depression. Unlike women, who may be more likely to seek social or professional support, men often feel social pressure to “be strong” and suppress emotions. This internalization can worsen their mental well-being over time. Additionally, sleep deprivation further compounds stress and weakens emotional resilience, increasing the risk of burnout.
Heart Health Risk
The fast pace of professional and personal life often leads men to neglect their physical health. Long hours at work, especially in sedentary roles, combined with limited time for exercise, elevate the risk of cardiovascular disease. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and increased risk of heart attack or stroke are common among men who lead high-stress, inactive lifestyles. Moreover, unhealthy eating habits, such as relying on processed foods or skipping meals, can contribute to obesity and increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
Men who work long hours at a desk may experience chronic neck, back, and shoulder pain due to poor ergonomics. On the other hand, those involved in physically demanding jobs may suffer from sprains, strains, or overuse injuries. Improper lifting techniques or lack of rest can aggravate these issues, leading to long-term musculoskeletal problems.
Turning To Harmful Habits
To cope with the demands of modern life, some men may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as smoking or alcohol consumption. This can cause significant long-term health issues, including liver disease, addiction, and cancer. Additionally, many men find themselves gaining weight due to limited time for exercise or lack of motivation after a long day, further exacerbating chronic health risks.
Hormonal Health Concerns
Chronic stress, poor diet, and lack of sleep can also affect hormone levels in men, including testosterone levels. Low testosterone levels may lead to decreased energy and sexual dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction, a condition often linked to poor cardiovascular health and psychological stress, is another issue that may go unspoken among men. One of the more silent risks is the tendency to neglect regular health checkups and screenings. Studies have shown that men are less likely than women to seek preventive care, often waiting until symptoms become severe before visiting a doctor. This delay can result in late diagnoses of serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, conditions that are far more manageable when caught early.
Incorporating Physical Activity and Diet for Better Health:
The heart is the vital organ of the body. Regular exercise can help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol, in turn reducing plaque buildup in blood vessels and lowering the risk of coronary heart disease.
To mitigate these risks, it is crucial for working men to prioritise their health alongside their professional and personal responsibilities. Simple steps such as scheduling regular health screenings, including tests for anemia, diabetes, cardiac function (lipid profile), liver function, kidney function, and more, are essential. Those with a personal or family history of cancer should also consider proactive screening for basic cancer-related markers to identify risks early and take necessary steps. Engaging in moderate physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking support for mental health can significantly improve overall well-being.
Equally important is creating an environment both at work and at home that values open communication and mutual support, helping men feel empowered to care for their health. With early detection and timely medical intervention, working men can manage common health risks and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives for themselves and their loved ones.
Dr. Ramesh Kumar is the Chief of Lab at Metropolis Healthcare Limited (Kerala)
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]
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