Chronic diseases are the main causes of illness and death in older men. These include heart diseases, diabetes, obesity and cancer. Illnesses related to our sexuality, such as HIV/AIDS are significant causes of illness and death among all age groups of men. Injuries and death from motor vehicle accidents and violence are the scourge of modern men. Yet, it has been shown that these problems can be prevented. What are the characteristics of men who are healthy in the face of these problems?

Preventable problems

Chronic diseases, sexually-related illnesses and injuries from violence and road traffic collisions are largely preventable. There is no doubt that physical wellness is directly related to the quality and quantity of the food men eat, their level of physical activity, their sexual choices and avoidance of smoking and alcohol in excess. The men who develop high levels of self-esteem, emotional resiliency and emotional intelligence tend to avoid violence-related injuries.

Well eaters

Men who maintain healthy lifestyles ensure that staples form almost 50 per cent of their meals. They eat staples such as yam, potatoes, bananas, cornmeal and oats. Legumes (peas, beans and nuts) and vegetables (such as callaloo, okras and tomatoes) constitute a quarter of the foods they eat. These men eat fruits, two or three times daily. They restrict foods from animals (fish, chicken, beef and pork) and fats and oils to less than 10 per cent of their regular intake. Healthy men read labels on the packages of processed foods. They restrict foods with high sodium, sugar and fat content.

Men on the move

Men who engage in daily physical activity whether by exercise or through their daily routine live healthier, longer lives. Men who live sedentary lives (such as drivers and desk-bound men) should seek to include at least 30 minutes of aerobic activities each day. This may be brisk walking, stair climbing or bicycle riding. Stretching and strengthening exercises, at least twice weekly, improve cardiovascular fitness. Mowing the lawn and raking the yard are good exercises to include in one's weekly routine.

Healthy decisions

Men promote their health by deciding to develop healthy habits. They avoid sexually-transmitted infections by developing a mature approach to sexuality. They have one intimate partner and use condoms. These men decide not to smoke and keep alcohol intake to a minimum (one ounce of white rum or four ounces of wine or two beers daily). They drive within speed limits and use seat belts. They educate themselves to improve their skills in order to reduce the risk of unemployment and related problems.

Stress management

Healthy men manage the stresses of the 21st century by making healthy choices. They prioritise tasks, refuse to over commit themselves, and learn to delegate their work. Especially in times of economic hardships, they are determined to live within their means. They build emotional havens by developing warm relationships with family and friends. The latter provides support during the emotional upheavals that occur in everyone's life.

Living well

Men choose to live healthy lives by keeping informed about current health facts. They also include a yearly physical examination at a heath-care provider to assist in their health maintenance.

Dr Pauline Williams-Green is a family physician and president of the Caribbean College of Family Physicians; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.