Four Harmful Habits That Negatively Affect Men's Health
Experts caution that men who frequently attend social events, indulge in smoking and drinking, or experience high levels of stress should prioritize checking four key health indicators.
Health Indicator 1: Blood Pressure
Current Situation: In the workplace, individuals are often faced with immense pressure, leading to a higher risk of elevated blood pressure. For instance, a health screening at a sewing machine company in Guangzhou revealed that out of 71 participants, 22 had high blood pressure, representing a staggering 30.99% of the group. Many individuals with high blood pressure may feel perfectly fine and remain unaware of their condition until severe complications, such as strokes or heart attacks, arise.
Reference Values: Normal adult blood pressure levels are defined as systolic pressure < 130 mmHg and diastolic pressure < 85 mmHg.
Medical Recommendations: Non-pharmacological interventions are vital for those with "pre-hypertension." Research indicates that effective lifestyle modifications include:
- Weight control (maintaining a BMI between 20 and 24)
- Salt intake limitation (keeping daily salt consumption below 6 grams)
- Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption
- Avoiding emotional fluctuations and fostering a positive mindset
- Engaging in regular physical activity
If an individual records a systolic pressure > 140 mmHg or a diastolic pressure > 90 mmHg for three consecutive days, they can be diagnosed with hypertension. For patients with early-stage or mild hypertension, lifestyle modifications should be the first approach. If results remain unsatisfactory after three months, antihypertensive medications may be necessary.
Health Indicator 2: Blood Lipids
Current Situation: According to statistics from the health examination department of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, among 6,113 individuals screened from 19 different units, 60.89% exhibited abnormal blood lipid levels. The likelihood of lipid abnormalities increases with the frequency of lavish meals and social drinking.
Reference Values: The optimal levels for blood lipids are total cholesterol < 5.2 mmol/L; triglycerides < 1.70 mmol/L; low-density lipoprotein < 3.12 mmol/L; and high-density lipoprotein (the "good" cholesterol) ≥ 1.04 mmol/L.
Medical Recommendations: If blood lipid tests indicate slightly elevated levels, the first step should be to focus on lifestyle changes:
- Weight Management: Increase physical activity and reduce caloric intake to achieve a weight loss of 7% to 10%
- Waist Measurement: For men, aiming for a waist circumference of less than 85 centimeters is advisable.
By being proactive about these health indicators, men can significantly improve their overall health and reduce the risks associated with unhealthy habits.