We all want to live longer and healthier lives, and there are a number of things that we are very well aware of that help us achieve these things – stay fit, don't abuse our bodies with drugs or alcohol, don't drive dangerously, be careful diving out of aeroplanes or off bridges!

These are pretty obvious, but what else should we be aware of if we are to live long and healthy lives? It's an important question for men to ask because men traditionally don't like to admit, even to themselves, that they might have a health problem.

If we know what health issues effect men across the board then perhaps we will be in a better position to avoid some of the lifestyle pitfalls that impact our health, and watch out for some of the symptoms that might act as early warning signs for us.

What are the health questions that men around the world are asking? Do any of these apply to you? Here is a list that will get your mind thinking...:

• I smoke, but not that many. I know any cigarette is bad for you but is less better than more?
• I regularly eat a few pieces of fruit and some vegetables each day, but normally end up also eating a big chunk of full fat cheese or a block of chocolate. Is it okay to treat myself to these things if I also do the right thing with my fruit and vegies?
• I felt a bit light headed the other day when I stood up after doing some gardening. Does this mean I have a blood pressure problem?
• My wife has discovered that she has HPV. Does that mean I will definitely have HPV as well and do I need to go to the doctor to get a treatment?
• I can sometimes feel small pains in my left chest, but not down my arm. Does this mean I have a heart problem?
• One of my testicles is swollen but it is not painful. Should I wait to see whether it goes back to normal or go to the doctor?
• I find a lot of my hair in the shower plug hole after every shower, but my hairline isn't receding and I don't look any different in the mirror. Is it normal to lose lots of hair in this way or am I starting to go bald?
• The circumference of my waist is 98 centimetres, which I have read increases my risk of various diseases, however I feel totally fit and healthy. How certain is the linkage between a large waist measurement and ill health?
• I have started to pee more frequently than normal, including in the middle of the night, but don't have any other discomfort. Is this an issue?
• I notice that I have a shortness of breath after walking up stairs. I don't feel any pain and my breath comes back quickly. Does shortness of breath by itself point to a definite health problem?
• I just love burnt sausages, particularly burnt barbecue sausages, and eat them regularly. Do burnt foods really represent a cancer risk?
• My father has arthritic joints and has to use a mobility scooter. How important are genetics with arthritis?

There are a number of illnesses that are either specific to men (eg, testicular cancer) or more likely to effect men (eg, heart disease) than women. However it is a fact that men are much less likely to go to the doctor than women.

Do yourself a favour men. Ask yourself the hard questions and go to the doctor earlier rather than later.