Seven numbers every man should know, say district health chiefs

This article was taken from: https://www.cravenherald.co.uk/news/17701921.seven-numbers-every-man-should-know-say-district-health-chiefs/

By By Alistair Shand

MEN across the district should know their vital stats.

That’s the message from Bradford district and Craven health chiefs.

They say there are seven key numbers every man should be aware of – 37, 150, 5, 14, 10, 120/80 and 75.

* The risk of heart disease, diabetes and cancer is increased by having a waist size of more than 37 inches.

* People can reduce the risk by aiming for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.

* Eating five portions of fruit or vegetables every day and limiting alcohol intake to no more than 14 units per week – or seven pints of average-strength lager – will have an impact on physical health.

* Smokers are likely to die ten years younger than somebody who doesn’t smoke.

* Men should be aware of their blood pressure level. A normal reading for a man is 120/80.

* And good health also means good mental health. Figures show that 75 per cent of people who take their own lives are men.

NHS Bradford district and Craven clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) are urging men to familiarise themselves with the figures.

The plea was issued in support of Men’s Health Week, which runs until Sunday.

Dr Graham Sanderson, a GP and clinical lead with NHS Bradford district and Craven CCGs, said: “Men aren’t always great at making their own health a priority and that includes their mental health.

“We often get a lot of messages about what is good and bad, which can be confusing, but I would urge men to learn the seven numbers. Knowing these numbers will help men realise when they may need to get some additional support to allow them to live well.

“There is lots of information available on the NHS website – nhs.uk – including details of support services and what to do if you are concerned about your health.

“Alternatively, if you are between the ages of 40 and 75, it’s really important to book in for a free NHS health check. It’s all about helping people spot the early signs of developing conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.”

More information can be found at menshealthforum.org.uk/mens-health-week-2019-numbers.

A short video focusing on the seven key numbers is at youtu.be/itlpQn4Xjgs.