Death - In the UK accidental deaths are five times more common in men than women between the ages of 15 and 44. Electrical, fire and poisoning accidents account for may fatalities but the most common cause is road accidents - even though safety improvements in recent years has increased the survival rate.
How to survive - Swot up on your driving skills, paying particular attention to other road users. Defensive driving is better than aggressive driving. And forget the mobile; if you want to use it - STOP
Cancer - Whilst working with asbestos, nickel and chromium are strong factors in the risk of lung cancer, the main cause remains tobacco. Not only does smoking lead to 90% of all lung cancers in the UK, it is the leading ause of cancer full stop. One in seven smokers will develop lung cancer by the age of 70 with 19 out of 20 of those dying within 5 years of diagnosis.
How to survive - Give up smoking. Need help then call the NHS Smoking Helpline 0800 169 0169
Heart Disease - By the time you learn you have heart problems you may already be on the table undergoing surgery. The root of heart disease starts with unhealthy lifestyles in the 20's and 30's.
How to survive - Give up smoking; Lower your blood pressure; Watch your cholesterol; Exercise more Help is available from the British Heart Foundation: 020 7935 0185
Suicide - Of all suicides in the UK 75% will be carried out by men. The rate of young men committing suicide is rising each year. Men are less likely to visit their GP or to admit that they have a problem, as unlike women they can't seem to talk about their problems. Alcohol, substance abuse and even long-term unemployment are also major factors in the reasons for men's' suicides.
How to survive - Talk to someone if you are depressed or suicidal. Visit your GP, call the Samaritans or Saneline. Remember there are reasons for your feelings and the solution could be a simple one. Depression is a medical condition and can be treated. Don't feel ashamed to admit the way you feel.
| Lifelines: |
Depression Alliance 020 7633 0557 |
| The Samaritans 0345 908 090 |
| Saneline 0345 678 000 |
Liver Disease - The liver is one of the most important organs in your body. Abuse it and you're heading for serious trouble. Liver cancer is up to four times more common in men than women. Why, because men drink more. Continued drinking over the years can lead to all sorts of damage including liver failure.
How to survive - If you booze, stop now. It's the only way to protect your liver. The recommended safe amount of alcohol, if you must drink, is 4 units per day - that's 2 pints of beer.
| Helplines: |
AA 020 7833 0022 |
| British Liver Trust 01473 276 326 |
Digestive Disorders - Whilst genetics plays a part in digestive cancers and disorders of the colon, stomach, intestines and rectum, diet is still the main culprit. What you eat determines your health.
How to survive - Watch what you eat. Cut out the junk food, salt, drink, alcohol and smoked and pickled foods. Wholemeal bread is good for you. Have regular health checks, in particular a stool check. For more info contact the Digestive Disorders Foundation www.digestivedisorders.org.uk
