Let’s face it, none of us will get out of this life alive – something is going to get each and every one of us. For some of us, it will be genetics that gets us, while for others it will be an accident or poor lifestyle choices that will escort us off our mortal coils. While life is a game we will all ultimately lose, we should always strive to make sure that the game itself is as enjoyable as possible, and that we play a productive role in it, for as long as we can. When it comes to the things that are most responsible for taking men out of the game of life genetics clearly do play a part. However, even in those cases establishing a prevent defense can do much to keep the grim reaper at bay.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are ten things that pose the greatest threat to the health and lives of men over 50. Knowing what these potential threats are is equivalent to a football team knowing what to expect from an upcoming opponent by watching their game films. If you know what to be concerned about, you can take preventive measures to ward off threats, and be more attuned to even the most subtle of signs of their appearance. So, think of the following list as the enemy’s playbook. Be aware of the things that have the highest potential of taking you out of the game of life, and establish a battle plan staring with these basic tips:

1 HEART DISEASE Heart disease is a leading threat to men’s health and lives. You can take charge of your heart health by making healthier lifestyle choices such as: Have your cholesterol level and blood pressure checked on a regular basis. If either is high, be vigilant in following your doctor’s recommendations. Don’t use any tobacco products and try to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fiber and fish. Cut back on foods high in saturated fat and sodium. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine. Maintain a healthy weight. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar under control. Manage your stress.

2 CANCER According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer, followed by prostate and colorectal cancer are the leading cause of cancer deaths among men. To assist in the prevention of cancer: Make cancer screenings a part of your regular check-ups. Reduce exposure to potential cancer-causing substances (carcinogens), such as radon, asbestos, radiation and air pollution. Don’t smoke. Limit your sun exposure and when you are outdoors, use sunscreen. Keep up a good exercise program to keep your weight in check. Eat a healthy diet and drink in moderation.

3 ACCIDENTS and INJURIES Falls and poisoning are leading causes of fatal accidents for men. Take common-sense precautions, such as using chemical products only in ventilated areas, using nonslip mats in the bathtub, place carbon monoxide detectors near your bedroom, and never get up on a ladder without someone to spot you. The leading cause of accidental death among men is due to motor vehicle crashes. To reduce your risk of a deadly crash: Always wear a seat belt. Adhere to speed limits. Don’t ever consider driving after taking medication that may impair your judgment or drinking alcohol. Never drive while sleepy.

4 STROKE Stroke is one of those nasty things that come with genetics and you simply can’t control some stroke risk factors, such as family history, age and race. However, you can be in total control when it comes to warding of contributing factors. For example: Limit the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet. Try to avoid trans fat entirely. Don’t even consider a puff on a cigarette or cigar. Keep close tabs on your cholesterol blood pressure levels. If they are high, work with your doctor to get them under control. Maintain a daily work-out regime to keep your weight at a healthy level. Keep the stress in your life to a minimum.

5 COPD Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a group of chronic lung conditions, including bronchitis and emphysema. To prevent COPD: Don’t smoke and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Minimize your exposure, as much as possible, to chemicals and air pollution.

6 TYPE 2 DIABETES Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes. It affects the way your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Possible complications of type 2 diabetes include heart disease, blindness, nerve damage and kidney damage. To prevent type 2 diabetes: Eat a healthy diet making sure you have daily servings of fruits, vegetables and low-fat foods. If you are overweight, get started on a daily exercise routine to drop those pounds.

7 FLU People think of influenza as a common viral infection that everyone gets at one time or another. While a case of the flu isn’t usually life threatening for young people and healthy adults, complications of the flu can be deadly for those with weak immune systems or chronic illnesses. To protect yourself from the flu: Get an annual flu vaccine. Avoid all contact with anyone who has flu symptoms. Keep your hands clean using antibacterial wipes and avoid touching your mouth.

8 SUICIDE Suicide is sadly a leading threat to the lives of men over 50. Stemming from depression and a sense of lost hope, suicide is a selfish act that has devastating, lifelong negative effects on those left behind. If you feel you may be depressed or have ever had suicidal thoughts: Consult your doctor immediately and know that treatment for depression is available. If you’re contemplating suicide, call for emergency medical help or go the nearest emergency room. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255.

9 KIDNEY DISEASE Kidney failure is often a complication of diabetes or high blood pressure. If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s treatment suggestions. In addition: Make sure you take you medications as prescribed. Eat a healthy diet and avoid the use of salt. Keep your weight at a health level by participating in a daily routine of physical activity.

10 ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE While there are known ways to prevent or cure Alzheimer’s disease, if you have a family history of Alzheimer’s or have begun to show signs of the disease, consider taking these steps: Do all you can to avoid head injuries. There appears to be a link between head injuries and future risk of Alzheimer's. Make heart heath your top priority. Studies show that high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and high cholesterol may increase the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. Maintain mental fitness. Practice mental exercises, read, do puzzles, take classes and any other take steps to learn new things. Keep very active and engaged with family and friends. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine. Avoid alcohol.

THE BOTTOM LINE If you are a man, or if you love a man, get to know these 10 threats. Take them seriously and be on the vigilant lookout for any signs that one of them is posing a threat. Do everything you can to avoid these threats by leading a healthy lifestyle, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, getting regular checkups and taking precautions in your daily activities. Adopting these preventive measures will increase your odds of staying in the game of life for as long as possible and maintaining the health and happiness to play an active role in the game.