The Ultimate Health Maintenance Checklist for Men in Their 30s and 40s

As kids, it seems like we can heal from anything. We’re still growing, so we have an abundant blood supply, higher growth hormone levels, healthier tissue, and a highly adaptive immune system. 

We jump headlong into things like we’re invincible. That logic carries many of us into our teen years and well into our 20s.

Men who have this idea of themselves in their youth can find themselves dealing with a variety of medical issues as they reach their 30s and 40s. 

With the help of our medical staff at Michigan Avenue Primary Care in Chicago, Illinois, men can stay on top of their health needs.

To avoid several long-term health conditions, let’s look at some common issues men face as they get older and how to stay healthy as you age.

Common health problems in men as they age

Many medical problems either affect men in higher numbers or are issues only men deal with. As you get older, this includes conditions such as:

Hypertension

As many as 46% of Americans over 20 and 51% of men struggle with high blood pressure.

Heart disease

Heart disease is the leading national and global cause of death, found in 7% of adults over 20, with an increase in risk as you age.

Obesity

More men are overweight and obese than women, and 43% of men ages 35-54 struggle with this issue.

Diabetes

An estimated 96 million people over 18 have prediabetes, and 4% of people between 18-44 have either undiagnosed or confirmed diabetes.

Prostate cancer

Cancer is the second-highest cause of death in America. Prostate cancer is the second-highest cause of death in men outside of skin cancer.

Erectile dysfunction

People often see this as a problem more common in older men; however, 26% of males under 40 struggle with erectile dysfunction, with the risk increasing each decade.

Tips to stay healthy 

To retain your health over time, here are some vital tips to avoid many of these medical problems:

Engage in regular exercise

Physical fitness is key to preventing long-term issues with diabetes, cancer, hypertension, depression, and improving heart and mental health.

Sleep regularly

Getting 7-9 hours of rest can make a significant difference in your health as you get older.

Eat a balanced diet

A proper diet can have a big impact on your heart health and reduce your risk of diabetes. It’s also crucial for mental health and improving nerve function.

Reduce stress as much as possible

Stress creates a strain on your mind and body, and high levels of stress can lead to problems with hypertension, heart disease, and other conditions.

Schedule routine exams and screenings

Just as important as these other helpful hints, getting regular medical checkups helps track problems as they arise and monitor existing conditions to see if they worsen or improve.

It’s essential to be more aware of your health issues as you age, but you can age gracefully and healthily with some help. Schedule an appointment with our team at Michigan Avenue Primary Care today to stay on top of your health needs.