The 'grim reaper' gender gap: Why Irish men are dying young
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The 'grim reaper' gender gap: Why Irish men are dying young
"Men in this country are dying prematurely at a rate 40pc higher than women, despite advancements in longevity. Many of these deaths are preventable, according to experts. So what's going wrong?"
"Peter Larkin lost his beloved sister to cancer when she was far too young to die, so for him, staying healthy has become the number one priority. "I wouldn't say that has always been the case. I'm 52 now, and it took a good few years of evolving and becoming more aware," he says. These days, he watches what he eats - "you can't outrun a bad diet" - doesn't drink alcohol and tries to get as much exercise as possible."
Men in this country suffer premature deaths at a rate 40% higher than women despite gains in overall longevity. Many of these premature deaths are preventable through improved prevention, earlier detection, and changes in behaviour. Personal experience of loss can drive individuals to prioritise health and sustain long-term habits. Common preventive behaviours include healthier diets, reduced alcohol consumption, and regular exercise. Awareness and meaningful habit change often develop gradually over years, especially into middle age. Societal factors, reluctance to seek medical care, and entrenched lifestyle patterns also contribute to elevated male mortality and require targeted public-health responses.
Read at Independent
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