The impact cardiovascular disease has on men’s health is quite stark. Over 4,000 men died from cardiovascular disease last year, according to findings from the Central Statistics Office (CSO).
Written by Martin Ryan, Irish Heart Foundation
One in four men will lose their lives prematurely to heart disease or stroke. It has also been well documented that men are three times more likely their female counterparts to die young (under the age of 65) from heart disease and stroke.
In conjunction with these alarming statistics, we know that men are less likely to engage with supports that protect their heart health. A recent survey carried out by the Irish Heart Foundation uncovered that one in four men do not prioritise their heart health. Despite this negative narrative on men’s heart health, it doesn’t have to remain this way. The good news is that 80% of premature deaths caused by heart disease and stroke are preventable through embracing healthier lifestyles.
In support of this, the Irish Heart Foundation have run a ‘Reboot your life campaign’ which aims to encourage men to review and make vital changes to improve their heart health. As part of this campaign we have created a booklet full of practical tips to help support men to make healthier lifestyle choices benefiting their heart health.
Make the change
Irish men, like men everywhere, deserve to live healthy, fulfilling lives. By prioritizing your diet, being physically active, getting your blood pressure and cholesterol checked, following alcohol guidelines and not smoking you can take control of your well-
being. Remember, seeking support from friends, family and healthcare professionals is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace a healthier lifestyle and enjoy the many benefits it brings. Your future self will thank you for it.
Quitting smoking
One in every two smokers will die of a tobacco-related disease with one in five adult men in Ireland currently smoking. The good news is that once you quit smoking you significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. The benefits of quitting happen almost immediately as even after 20 minutes your blood pressure and pulse will begin to return to normal.
Get more active
Physical activity is one of the most important things to help you reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Getting regular physical activity improves your cardiovascular fitness, reduces your blood pressure and helps you maintain a healthy weight.
It’s recommended that all adults should get at least 30 minutes of moderate-vigorous intensity physical activity on at least five days of the week.
Check your blood pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) is another major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Two in three over the age of 50 have undiagnosed high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a silent killer as it can often be symptomless so it’s really important to get your blood pressure checked regularly by your GP or local pharmacy.
Eat for you heart
A healthy balanced diet is particularly important for reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. It’s advisable to incorporate foods like fruit, vegetables and wholegrains into your diet as much as possible. Reducing highly processed foods like sausages, bacon and ham will play a key role in your diet plus limiting foods and drinks that are high in sugar, fat and salt like takeaways, soft drinks and crisps.
Rethink your drink
At least one in three adult men consume alcohol at least once a week. Alcohol is high in sugar and calories and drinking more than the recommended amounts can impact your heart health.
The low-risk alcohol guidelines for men indicates that you should consume less than 17 standard drinks spread across the week with at least two alcohol-free days. A half pint of beer or 100ml glass of wine are examples of one standard drink.
The Irish Heart Foundation has a long-standing relationship of working with men to meet their health needs and protect their heart health. Initiatives that support improved heart health for men have been designed and delivered in partnership with stakeholders including HSE, Men’s Sheds, Pavee Point and IFA.
Farmers Have Hearts
One such example of this collaborative work is through our Farmers Have Hearts Programme developed and led by the Irish Heart Foundation since 2013. It directly addresses the cardiovascular health of farmers, recognizing the unique challenges they face and offering tailored support. This targeted approach to farmers’ health, delivered in marts across the nation, serves as a vital resource for identifying cardiovascular risks, promoting healthier habits and connecting high-risk individuals with appropriate GP care. Future plans are in place to scale up this programme providing even further support to this high-risk group.
