In honor of June being Canadian Men’s Health Month, let’s turn our attention to a vital aspect of well-being that often goes unnoticed—our lungs. For those of us crossing the 40-year milestone, it’s time to take a deep breath and commit to protecting our respiratory health. Let’s jump into some practical advice that can help:
Understanding Respiratory Risks
Before we explore preventive measures, let’s understand common respiratory risks faced by men over 40:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD, including conditions like chronic bronchitis and emphysema, affects millions of Canadians. Factors like smoking, environmental pollutants, and even genetics can lead us down this path. But there’s hope – early detection and a few changes in our daily routine can make a world of difference.
Adult-Onset Asthma
Asthma isn’t limited to childhood. Many adults can develop asthma or experience worsening symptoms as they age. The key is to manage it proactively—know your triggers, keep your inhaler handy, and breathe easy.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer risk increases with age. The good news? Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, regular health checks, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce this risk.
Embracing a Lung-Friendly Lifestyle
Quit Smoking
Smoking is the leading cause of respiratory diseases. If you smoke, seek professional help to quit. Even if you’ve smoked for years, quitting significantly improves lung health. Check out some of these health benefits of quitting smoking:
- 20 minutes after quitting – your heart rate drops to a normal level
- 12 to 24 hours after quitting – risk of heart attack is significantly reduced and carbon monoxide levels in your blood drop to normal
Take a look at more health benefits you experience from 20 minutes to 15 years after smoking here: Benefits of Quitting Smoking | American Lung Association
Check out this guide to becoming a non-smoker: On the road to quitting: Guide to becoming a non–smoker - Canada.ca
Stay Active
Exercise isn’t just for looks; it’s for your lungs too. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a bike ride, a swim, find joy in movement. Not sure where to start? A fitness expert can tailor a routine just for you.
Check out the Fitness for Breath program through the Lung Health Foundation here: Fitness for breath (lunghealth.ca). They have virtual classes available and are an exercise maintenance program and support group for people living with chronic lung conditions.
Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fruits, veggies, grains, and lean proteins isn’t just tasty—it’s oxygen for your cells. Feed your lungs the good stuff, and they’ll thank you for it.
- This nutrition guide from Lung Sask may help you learn more about healthy eating habits and meal ideas: eating-well-lung-health.pdf (lungsask.ca)
Environmental Awareness
Be aware of your surroundings and do your best to avoid exposure to pollutants, secondhand smoke, and occupational hazards. Properly ventilate your home and workplace.
- Check out this list of ways to identify indoor pollutants: Clean Air, Clear Lungs: Strategies for Indoor Air Quality in 2024 (arcnetwork.ca)
- Learn more about proper ventilator and the indoor environment here: Factsheet: Ventilation and the indoor environment - Canada.ca
Regular Check-ups
Spirometry Tests
These simple tests can be your crystal ball, revealing the state of your lung function and catching issues before they escalate.
Annual Flu Vaccination
Flu can exacerbate respiratory conditions. Annual flu shots protect against complications.
Screening for Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea affects breathing during sleep. If you experience excessive snoring or daytime fatigue, consult a sleep specialist.
Mental Health Matters
Stress and anxiety aren’t just in your head—they can squeeze your lungs too. Practice relaxation techniques, lean on your support system, and put your mental health first.
Men over 40 can breathe strong by adopting some of these preventive measures. Prioritize lung health, stay informed, and consult healthcare professionals regularly. Remember, a healthy respiratory system contributes to overall vitality and longevity.