Behavioral Factors Associated with Disease, Injury, and Death among Men: Evidence and Implications for Prevention

Men in the United States suffer more severe chronic conditions, have higher death rates for all 15 leading causes of death, and die more than six years younger than women. In an attempt to explain these differences, this review summarizes recent evidence of gender differences in behaviors that significantly influence health and longevity. Drawing upon large studies, national data, and meta-analyses, it systematically demonstrates that males of all ages are more likely than females to engage in over 30 behaviors that increase the risk of disease, injury, and death. These findings provide compelling evidence that men's greatest health risks are preventable and indicate that poor health behaviors frequently co-occur among men. The implications of this review for future research and for the design of interventions with men are discussed.