Men’s Health

…dedicated to increasing the awareness of early detection and preventable action against diseases that impact the men in our community. In this article, we will cover the many aspects that impact a male’s health, physically and neurologically.

On average men are more likely to develop type II diabetes, chronic liver disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and are twice as likely to suffer from a heart attack.

With these staggering numbers, it is necessary to educate ourselves and our loved ones on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and keeping up with preventative care.

On average, men are 3.5 times more likely to experience severe depression, resulting in suicide compared to women. As a neurologist, I always stress the importance of physical wellness. This as a key piece of the puzzle when it comes to mental wellbeing. Studies have shown that inactivity can result in a 60% increase in depression compared to physically active men. It is time to get serious about mental health and it is never too early or too late to start. As a matter of fact, Studies have shown that senior adults get the most immediate impact out of exercise activity. Integrating moderate exercise into your weekly schedule can result in positive regulation of hormone levels which greatly impact the brain. Even 30 minutes of chair aerobics daily can have a very positive impact.

To my older patients or those coping with physical challenges, I take great pride in our physical therapy team that incorporates the highest level of care with a personalized approach. Other options include home healthcare and home physical therapy to start the process going.

The latest studies have shown that if you want to reduce your risk of suffering from coronary disease and cardiovascular disease, start sleeping. Regardless of age, sleep affects males of all ages (adolescents to adults). On average, men who sleep 7-8 hours per night reduce their chances of heart attacks by 60%, compared to those who sleep 5 hours or less. Sleep deprivation comes at a cost, and without the proper amount of sleep, the male body cannot regulate normal hormonal balances in the bloodstream. The negative outcomes that result from a lack of sleep are conditions like chronic stress, weight gain, low testosterone, infertility, erectile dysfunction, and depression. Individuals who have sleep apnea are at significantly higher risk for stroke and heart attack, as well as can suffer from what is called the “metabolic syndrome”; this is the inability to lose weight due to higher cortisol that comes from tricking the brain into believing it is running a race that night because it is not getting oxygen. However, there is no metabolic activity, just a lack of oxygen.

With all the fad diets being pushed left and right, nothing stands as tall as the good old-fashioned consumption of well rounded, balanced nutrition; including fats, carbs, and protein. Overconsumption and under-consumption have been proven to lead to metabolism disruption.

And as a male with unique needs, it is important to stay on top of your health by working with your healthcare provider in assessing what is necessary for you. Simple ways to start a healthier lifestyle can be watching your alcohol intake. For men, consuming more than 10 drinks a week, doubles the risk of type II diabetes, increases the chances of obesity, and interferes with male hormone production.

Overall, a healthier lifestyle (no smoking, avoiding excessive drinking, maintaining a proper diet, sleep, and exercise) leads to a less likely chance of experiencing a severe decline in health. With men, in particular, this can help also help decrease the chances of developing urological conditions such as prostate cancer and testicular cancer.

Message from Dr. Kandel; “It is important to remember that your physical health impacts your neurological health and no step is too small to start. I encourage you to share this with a family member or friend this upcoming Father’s Day and spread the awareness of Men’s Health to make a positive impact for our fathers, husbands, brothers and sons in our community”

If you have any questions related to Men’s Health or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact the Neurology Office for more help.