Life Beat: Men’s Health Month

Men’s Health Awareness Month brings attention to preventable health problems, early detection and treatment of diseases and improving overall well-being among men and boys. Here are four action steps to make health a priority for men.

Step 1: Choose a Primary Care Provider

Many people think of the doctor as someone to see when they are sick. Be sure to visit the doctor for regular check-ups even if you feel ne. Some diseases don’t have symptoms at rst. Seeing a doctor will give you a chance to catch diseases early and learn more about your health. Don’t be embarrassed to talk about your health. Start by talking to family members to learn which diseases run in your family. Share this information with your doctor to help them determine what health risks to watch for.

Step 2: Schedule Screening Tests

Screenings help nd problems early when they may be easier to treat. If you are in a high-risk group or have a family history of disease, talk to your doctor about the bene ts of earlier screenings. Much like a vehicle maintenance schedule, check-ups and screenings need to take place as you age. Your PCP will determine the right frequency for you. Most people don’t enjoy going to the doctor or being prodded for medical tests, but making this a part of your routine could extend your life. Here are a few important screening examples for men:

• Check your blood pressure at least once every two years.

• Have an electrocardiogram or EKG starting at age 30.

• Complete routine lab work checking for high cholesterol, heart health, diabetes, kidney, or thyroid problems.

• If you feel stressed, anxious, or sad, ask your doctor to screen you for depression.

• If you are at risk of heart attack or colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor about taking aspirin every day to lower your risk.

• Have exams and screenings done for the most common kinds of cancer among men: Skin Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Lung Cancer, Colorectal (Colon) Cancer

Step 3: Good Nutrition

Food doesn’t just fuel the body; it can help ght o and prevent disease. To prevent all of the top disease killers of men, you need to avoid meals high in fat, sodium, and sugar. A healthy diet and regular physical activity can help lower blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, and weight.

Step 4: Get Moving

It’s recommended adults participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity a week; 30 minutes of moderate activity per day. Physical activity helps you feel better, function better, and sleep better. It also reduces anxiety. Physical activity is a game changer for both physical and mental health!

Interested in more ways to improve your health? Join PTSMC in July for a Men’s Health event! Details coming soon.

(Reference: https://www.uspm.com/celebrate-mens-health-month/ )