Cardiovascular Disease on Men’s Health

The impact of cardiovascular  disease on men’s health is staggering. According to the findings from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) in 2023 over 5,000 men died from cardiovascular disease.

One in three men lose their lives to heart disease or stroke. It is widely recognised that men are often less likely to engage with heart health supports, and historically have not prioritised their cardiovascular well-being, this narrative does not need to persist. Shifting the focus to prevention, education, and awareness can help men take greater ownership of their heart health.

The good news is that 80% of premature deaths from cardiovascular disease is preventable through embracing healthier lifestyles.

Making minor changes now can lead to a long-term healthier lifestyle. Start by being more physically active, focusing on a nutritious diet, and getting regular health checks for blood pressure and cholesterol. Additionally, follow health guidelines on alcohol consumption and avoid smoking. These steps will set the foundation for better heart health and overall well-being. Your future self will thank you for it.

Let’s make the change and prioritise your heart health!

Move More – Every Move Counts

Physical activity is one of the most important things to help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Getting regular physical activity improves your cardiovascular fitness, reduces your blood pressure, and helps maintain a healthy weight. It is recommended that all adults should get 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity. That adds up at most 30 minutes per day for five days a week, which is less than three per cent of your day.

Healthy Diet = Healthy Heart

A healthy, balanced diet is essential for lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is recommended to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your meals. Minimise highly processed foods and limit consumption of foods and drinks high in sugar, fat and salt for better heart health.

Quit smoking and rethink your drinking

21% of men are more likely to smoke than their female counterparts according to Healthy Ireland, 2023. 1 in every 2 smokers will die of a tobacco related disease. The good news is that once you quit smoking you significantly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

At least 1 in 3 adult men consume alcohol at least once a week. 37% of men binge drink according to statistics from Healthy Ireland, 2023. Alcohol is high in sugar and calories and consuming more than the recommended amounts can have a significant impact on your heart health. Be aware of the recommended low risk alcohol guidelines for men, consume less than 17 standard drinks across the week with at least two alcohol free days.

Check your blood pressure and cholesterol

High blood pressure (hypertension) is another major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The normal level of blood pressure is about 120 over 80, with high blood pressure defined as 140 over 90 or higher. Known as the silent killer, 2 in 3 people over the age of 50 have undiagnosed high blood pressure, so it is important to get your blood pressure checked regularly by your GP or local pharmacy.

One of the best ways to prevent cardiovascular disease (such as stroke or heart attack) is to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level. Having high cholesterol affects people of all ages and it can be caused by many different things. Some things you can control like lifestyle habits, and others you can’t. Making small changes now can make a big difference to your life now and in the future, especially if you already have heart disease or a family history of it.

Irish Heart Foundation

The Irish Heart Foundation has a long-standing relationship of collaborating 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 various stakeholders.

Our campaign “Reboot Your Life” encourages men to assess their lifestyle and make essential changes to improve their heart health. A booklet with heart healthy tips and information can be downloaded from irishheart.ie.

The Irish Heart Foundation offers a range of resources and support materials at irishheart.ie.

Written by Dáire Conway, Health Promotion Officer (Physical Activity) with the Irish Heart Foundation

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