New Delhi: Life expectancy at birth indicates the number of years a newborn infant would live if prevailing patterns of mortality at the time of its birth were to stay the same throughout its life. Life expectancy at birth, male (years) in India was reported at 70.52 years in 2023, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators, compiled from officially recognised sources. While India has seen improvements in the past years, its life expectancy for men is still below the global average, which is around 71 years.
Speaking on habits that affect the life expectancy in Indian men, Dr Madhav Hande, Consultant – Nephrology, Renal Transplant Physician, Manipal Hospital Whitefield, said that as a nephrologist, he has observed how men’s health habits can take a toll on their kidneys and urinary systems. “It’s often tough to witness serious consequences, but much of this is preventable. Let’s be honest: men often face a higher risk of kidney disease. Men are more prone to conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and obesity. Smoking and consuming more alcohol significantly increase the risk of bladder and prostate cancers,” he added.
Men, please don’t avoid seeking medical help
The doctor said that another issue he noticed is that men tend to put off seeing a doctor. “I can’t tell you how many times I’ve met patients with kidney failure or advanced cancer that, with earlier intervention, could have been treated so much more effectively. We need to get better at catching these issues early on.
Hormones also play a part. Testosterone, while essential for men’s health, can contribute to prostate enlargement. Over time, this can block urine flow and damage the kidneys. Erectile dysfunction often signals early heart or kidney issues. Men must never ignore these symptoms,” Dr Hande said.
How can men safeguard their kidney and urological health
Dr Hande primarily suggested that men opt for regular check-ups. He said, “Make sure you’re getting your blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol evaluated annually. And ask about screening for early kidney damage. If you’re having trouble urinating or notice changes in flow, see your doctor. Addressing prostate issues early can prevent kidney complications down the line.” Here are four simple lifestyle changes men can adopt to protect their kidneys and overall well-being:
- Cut down on salt
- Stay well-hydrated
- Keep a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
Erectile dysfunction: For men who have enlarged prostates, Dr Hande suggested they consult specialists immediately. “Medications can often help you avoid surgery and preserve kidney function. Also, I am forced to repeat that men must take erectile dysfunction seriously. It’s not just about quality of life; it’s a genuine red flag for deeper cardiovascular or kidney problems. Addressing it can profoundly improve your long-term health. My take-home message is this: don’t wait for a crisis to take charge of your health. Prevention and early action are key to maintaining men’s health,” he added.
Globally, men live about five years less on average compared to women
Dr Jayanti Khura, Consultant-Internal Medicine, Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, stated this statistic, adding that although genes do contribute, the difference is mostly driven by preventable lifestyle factors. “The good news is that many things that men can do differently will greatly extend – and enhance – a man’s life. Besides opting for regular checkups and quitting smoking and alcohol, which are a must, there are a few other steps that would enable them to lead a better and healthier life,” she said, stating the following points:
Never negate diet and exercise: A heart-healthy, metabolic-supportive diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats can help your body. Regular physical activity — at least 150 minutes per week — can reduce obesity, improve mood, and increase cardiovascular fitness.
Strong social ties and healthy relationships: Solitude as a risk factor for early death is increasingly being recognized in the United States and across the industrialised world, including India.
Dr Khura said that by focusing on preventative care, adopting healthy habits, and tending to mental health, men have the potential to not only close the gap in life expectancy but also to remain healthy as they grow older and experience good health well into old age.
“It’s never too soon, or too late, to begin making these changes,” she said.