Empowering Black Men Over 50: Effective Strategies to Combat Common Health Challenges
By Dr. David Samadi
As Black men age, specific health concerns start to pop up on the radar more often than others. A recent AARP study highlights four of these top concerns—high blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease—that tend to worry Black men over 50. And there’s good reason to take them seriously, as these health disparities are rooted in genetic and societal factors.
While some of these risks are outside our control, we can take plenty of proactive steps to help protect ourselves. Here’s a straightforward look at these health issues and practical ways to stay on top.
Watch Your Sodium Intake
High blood pressure (or hypertension) affects Black adults at higher rates than White adults, and managing sodium intake can make a big difference. Many of us get more than double the recommended daily sodium, mostly from packaged and restaurant foods rather than the salt shaker. Cutting down by even 1,000 mg daily—equivalent to a tablespoon of soy sauce or about 3 ounces of deli meat—can help lower blood pressure.
Track Your Blood Pressure
Monitoring blood pressure can be easy and inexpensive. If you know you have high blood pressure (over 130/80 mm Hg), consider getting a home blood pressure monitor (around $20) or stop by a pharmacy offering free readings. When you know your numbers, this guides you in avoiding complications like heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease.
Move Your Body
Regular physical activity has many benefits, from lowering the risk of heart disease and diabetes to easing arthritis pain. This doesn’t mean you need a gym membership or a fancy treadmill—a brisk walk, a bike ride, or some at-home exercises can work just as well. The CDC strongly suggests to engage in 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, but less than a quarter of older Black men meet this goal. Even small changes to stay active make a difference.
Build a Strong Relationship with Your Doctor
A trusted healthcare provider can make all the difference, especially if you have a regular doctor who knows your history and health concerns. Annual checkups help you stay up-to-date on screenings for high blood pressure, diabetes, and cancer. If you don’t have a regular doctor, consider finding one who understands your background and health goals. Strong relationships with healthcare providers lead to better, more personalized care.
Be an Active Participant in Your Care
When you’re with your doctor, ask questions about diet, weight, and any routine screenings you may need. Some critical questions could be, “Do I need any blood work?” or “What can I do to improve my cholesterol?” Engaging in these conversations shows you’re serious about your health and want to live a long, disease-free life.
Keep Your Family in the Loop
Your family’s health history can shed light on your risk factors. If you know that high blood pressure or diabetes runs in your family, that’s more reason to stay on top of these health concerns. Talking about health history with loved ones can help everyone stay informed and proactive.
Make a Plan to Quit Smoking
If you smoke, know that quitting is one of the best things you can do for your health. Smoking can result in serious health conditions, from cancer to heart disease. Talk to your doctor for support—they can help you explore tools and resources to quit.
Final thoughts
By taking these steps, you can take control of your health, even when dealing with challenges that feel out of reach. Small lifestyle changes can reduce the impact of these health issues and help protect your well-being as you age.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, Prostate Cancer Now What? A Practical Guide to Diagnosis, Treatment, and Recovery and The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncolo gy and prostate cancer 911.