Men are more likely than women to die from 9 of the top 10 leading causes of death in the US-but most of these risks are preventable with the right habits and early action.
Most men don’t think about their health until something goes wrong. The good news? Small, consistent changes can dramatically cut your risk for life’s biggest threats.
1. Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in American men, responsible for 1 in 4 male deaths, according to the CDC. It develops when plaque builds up in your arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart.
Prevent it by: Exercising 150 minutes per week, cutting processed foods, and checking your blood pressure regularly.
2. Lung Cancer
Smoking causes around 80-90% of lung cancer cases, per the CDC. But even non-smokers face risk from radon gas and secondhand smoke.
Prevent it by: Quitting smoking, testing your home for radon, and asking your doctor about screenings if you’re 50+ with a smoking history.
3. Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or a blood vessel bursts. High blood pressure is the single biggest risk factor.
Prevent it by: Keeping your blood pressure below 120/80 mmHg, limiting alcohol, and managing stress.
4. Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes affects 1 in 10 Americans, and men are more likely to develop it at a lower body weight than women. It occurs when your body can’t properly use insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar.
Prevent it by: Cutting added sugar, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting your blood glucose levels tested annually after age 35.
5. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men. It often has no early symptoms, which makes regular screening critical.
Prevent it by: Talking to doctor Nudell about a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) blood test starting at age 50-or 40 if you have a family history.
6. Chronic Lower Respiratory Disease (COPD)
COPD is an umbrella term for lung diseases, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema, that make it hard to breathe. Smoking is the primary cause.
Prevent it by: Never smoking, or quitting as soon as possible. Lung damage can slow significantly after you quit.
7. Accidents and Unintentional Injuries
Men are nearly twice as likely as women to die from unintentional injuries, including car crashes, falls, and poisoning, according to the CDC. Risk-taking behavior plays a major role.
Prevent it by: Always wearing a seatbelt, avoiding distracted driving, and storing medications safely to prevent accidental overdose.
8. Depression and Suicide
Men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide, yet far less likely to seek mental health support. Depression (persistent low mood, fatigue, and loss of interest) is often underdiagnosed in men because symptoms can look different-irritability and risk-taking rather than sadness.
Prevent it by: Talking to a doctor or therapist early. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (988) is available 24/7.
9. Liver Disease
Heavy alcohol use and obesity are the two biggest drivers of liver disease in men. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)-where fat accumulates in liver cells-is now the most common liver condition in the US.
Prevent it by: Drinking no more than two alcoholic drinks per day, maintaining a healthy weight, and asking for a liver function test if you’re in a high-risk group.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the biggest health risks for men?
Heart disease, cancer (lung and prostate), stroke, and type 2 diabetes are the leading health threats for men in the US. Most are closely linked to lifestyle factors like smoking, diet, and physical inactivity.
At what age should men start getting regular health screenings?
Most doctors recommend starting routine screenings-blood pressure, cholesterol, blood glucose-in your 20s and 30s. Prostate cancer and colorectal cancer screenings typically begin at 45-50, or earlier with a family history.
Can men reduce their health risks without medication?
Yes. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, not smoking, limiting alcohol, and managing stress can significantly lower risk across most conditions. That said, some people benefit from medication alongside lifestyle changes-always consult a doctor for personalized guidance.
How does weight affect men’s health risks?
Excess weight is a risk factor for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and certain cancers. Even modest weight loss-5-10% of body weight-can meaningfully improve metabolic health markers.