Behavioral Factors Associated with Disease, Injury, and Death among Men: Evidence and Implications for Prevention

Abstract

Men in the United States suffer more severe chronic conditions, have higher death rates for all 15 leading causes of death, and die more than six years younger than women. In an attempt to explain these differences, this review summarizes recent evidence of gender differences in behaviors that significantly influence health and longevity. Drawing upon large studies, national data, and meta-analyses, it systematically demonstrates that males of all ages are more likely than females to engage in over 30 behaviors that increase the risk of disease, injury, and death. These findings provide compelling evidence that men's greatest health risks are preventable and indicate that poor health behaviors frequently co-occur among men. The implications of this review for future research and for the design of interventions with men are discussed.

Masculine discrepancy stress, substance use, assault and injury in a survey of US men

“…Because gender socialisation is culturally driven and its influence on health behaviours may differ by country,8 we restricted our sample to men from the USA. Likewise, because injury related to violence and risky substance use behaviour is highest among men ages 18–44,1 which also happens to be the largest group of the male US population,11 we restricted our sample to men ages 18–50. Individuals were compensated US$2.00 for completion of the questionnaires.…”

“…Relative to women, men are at greater risk of poor health and injury, likely due to their propensity for risk-taking behaviours 1. For example, men demonstrate higher rates of substance use, binge drinking, reckless and aggressive driving, driving while intoxicated (DWI), weapon carrying and violence 1 2.…”

“…For example, men demonstrate higher rates of substance use, binge drinking, reckless and aggressive driving, driving while intoxicated (DWI), weapon carrying and violence 1 2. These behaviours put men of all ages at risk not just for self-injury, but injury to others as well.…”

“…Additionally, in a sample of adolescent boys, discrepancy stress was found to be associated with the perpetration of sexual violence 7. Considering the link between the male gender role in the USA and a number of deleterious behaviours associated with risk taking and injury such as aggression and substance abuse,1 5 8 9 it is important to clarify the role of masculine discrepancy stress in such forms of maladjustment in a sizeable US sample. Accordingly, we sought to address these gaps in the present research by investigating substance use/abuse and violence beyond sexual or intimate interactions.…”

No man's land: men, illness, and the NHS

“…US research shows that men with health problems are more likely than women to have had no recent contact with a doctor regardless of income or ethnicity 1. This reluctance means that men often do not seek help until a disease has progressed 2.…”