Larry E. Smith, MD, FACP
5116 Northwind Blvd, Valdosta, GA 31605, 229 261 9500
Men have a life expectancy 7 to 9 years less than women. Most of this difference is due to an increased incidence of coronary artery disease, emphysema, lung cancer, industrial accidents, exposure to toxic chemicals, motor vehicular accidents, suicides and cirrhosis of the liver. Other contributors to this discrepancy are lifestyle, stress, hormonal status, genetics and immune function. None of the diseases unique to men significantly contribute to this lower life expectancy. With over 710 760 deaths each year, heart disease still is the leading cause of men dying. Furthermore, cigarette smoking is still the most common actual cause of death with over 435 000 deaths each year. However, poor diet and physical inactivity with over 400 000 is fast approaching. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer but men are ten times more likely to die from heart disease.