Men are at an increased risk of premature mortality across all major disease areas. There are three possible explanations:• Men are biologically more vulnerable than women; • Men's lifestyles (such as higher rates of smoking and alcohol intake) create more life-limiting disease • Men are more reluctant or unable to seek early medical attention. It appears that the health of men, in particular the ways in which men may be uniquely at risk, is still failing to receive adequate attention. [With external links to the evidence base]