Men are nearly three times more likely to die prematurely from cardiovascular disease than women.

It is time for men to step up and take some action for the good of their hearts.

This week (Monday 11 to Sunday 17 June) is Men’s Health Week (MHW) 2018 which aims to heighten awareness of preventable health problems, support men and boys to engage in healthier lifestyles, and encourage the early detection and treatment of health difficulties.

This year, MHW has borrowed from Astronaut Neil Armstrong’s immortal phrase: ‘One small step for man. One giant leap for mankind’ and is asking men ‘what’s your small step going to be?’. By taking at least one small step to improve their own health and the health of males throughout the country, it is hoped that this will lead to a giant leap for men’s health.

Each day of MHW2018 will have a different theme and today (Tuesday 12 June) will focus on heart health.

Cardiovascular disease is one of the main killers of men in Ireland making it essential for men to look after their hearts

Too often men delay in seeking health advice or getting to hospital – they don’t want to cause a fuss, or they waste vital time calling friends or family first – which can prove fatal.

But the harsh truth is that many of Ireland’s men over 45 are at risk of developing heart disease leading to a heart attack.

The most common symptom of a heart attack in men is chest pain. This is usually a crushing or tight pain, which may move to your jaw or your arms, particularly on the left side. You may also feel short of breath, sweaty or sick. You may feel light-headed or lose consciousness. You may become anxious or very afraid. However, 10 to 15 per cent of people who have a heart attack may not feel anything, they may just feel weak, tired or short of breath.

Dr Angie Brown, Medical Director with the Irish Heart Foundation advised to call 999 if you think you may be having a heart attack as every second counts.

“If you are having a heart attack quick treatment to open the blocked artery can save your life and reduce the damage to your heart. Time is muscle,” Dr Brown stated.

The good news is that 80 per cent of premature heart disease and stroke is preventable so it is important to get checked out and take some simple steps to reduce your risk.

Here are five simple steps men can take to help maintain a healthy heart

1. Get help to stop smoking if you smoke.
2. Get your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels checked
3. Eat a healthy diet
4. Exercise regularly
5. Reduce your alcohol intake.

All these steps will help keep your heart healthy, please take them today.