It's true. When driving, men don't ask directions as often as women do. And when dealing with health issues, men are less likely to ask their doctor about medical conditions – especially those they'd rather not think about. In fact, men see physicians 28 percent less often than do women.

Not such a good idea. According to U.S. life insurance statistics, the average woman lives to age 79 – six years longer than men, who, on average, use more tobacco products, consume more alcohol, make poorer food choices and take more risks when driving.

Herbert Watkins, MD, a board-certified urologist and Assistant Chief of the Department of Urology at Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, offers a brief overview of three important men's health issues and the best ways to avoid medical consequences for the long haul along life's winding road.

Potholes to avoid on the road to health:

1. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death for U.S. adults, accounting for about one-third of deaths for people over 35 – with the death rate inordinately higher for men.

Hazard: High blood pressure, bad cholesterol levels or a family history of heart problems.

What to do: Get annual physical exams. Know your cholesterol levels. Don’t smoke. Drink alcohol in moderation. Eat more fruit, vegetables and high-fiber foods while avoiding saturated fats. Exercise 30 minutes, three to five times a week.

2. Diabetes leads to high glucose (sugar) levels in your blood.

Hazard: Family history of diabetes, lack of regular exercise, being overweight or obese. Symptoms can include frequent urination, unusual thirst, erratic mood swings, extreme hunger or fatigue.

What to do: Have your blood glucose level tested if exhibiting warning signs. Maintain a healthy weight range for your height and body type. Eat healthy, high-fiber foods, exercise regularly and consume alcohol in moderation.

3. Prostate cancer is second only to lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths among American men.

Hazard: Age – incidence rises considerably after 40. Risk is doubled if father or brother is affected. Smoking, sedentary lifestyle and poor diet also increase the risk. Symptoms can include difficult or painful urination, erectile dysfunction (ED), blood in urine or semen, and pain in lower back, hips or upper thighs.

What to do: Have a physical exam that includes a blood test that measures the PSA level annually beginning at age 50 – 40 if African-American or with a family history of prostate cancer.

Beware: Sometimes there are no symptoms, making early detection all the more important.

"Take responsibility for your health," Dr. Watkins concludes. "Remember, it's the only body you've got. Where would you live without it?"