Men’s Health Month, observed every year in June, shines the spotlight on health challenges faced by men. The month is dedicated to enriching men’s wellness and knowledge of preventable health issues among men and boys.
Although the average lifespan of men is known to be shorter than that of women, it’s not entirely known why. One leading explanation offered by researchers is that the average man pays less attention to his health than the average woman. For example, surveys have found that women are much more likely to have a regular healthcare provider, and to see their provider within the course of the year, than men are. Men are also more likely to engage in “risky” behaviors – like smoking and drinking heavily – than women. Experts agree that by taking better care of themselves, men can increase their odds of living healthier, longer lives.
A Major Issue: Heart Disease
One of the first steps men can take to prioritize their health is to consult with their doctor to identify certain diseases and health conditions they are at higher risk of developing due to their genetic make-up and lifestyle habits. For example, a higher percentage of men (50%) have high blood pressure than women (44%). Heart disease is still the leading killer of American men. There is also a well documented link between cardiovascular disease and cerebrovascular disease and subsequent cognitive impairment and dementia. Although women are at greater risk of developing Alzheimer disease dementia, men are at greater risk of developing vascular dementia.
Many early-warning signs of heart disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol, have no symptoms. These “silent killers” can damage your heart and circulatory system before you know you have a problem, which is why it’s important to have regular check-ups and discuss risk factors and potential screenings with your healthcare provider.
The Importance of Screenings and Regular Checkups
Early detection of a medical issue is the best way to treat and manage it effectively. Delaying or avoiding a checkup or screening could lead to a treatable situation getting out of hand. In addition to screenings, vaccines also are essential to prevent infectious diseases. Vaccinations for men are administered at different intervals throughout adulthood.
According to the Mayo Clinic, men 50 and older should have a yearly physical exam, and those younger than 50 should have a physical exam every three to five years. Even if you’re feeling healthy, a regular checkup with your healthcare team is an excellent way to validate your health or identify a problem in its early stages.
Here are some screening tests recommended for men age 40-65:
- Blood Pressure
- Colorectal Cancer
- Cholesterol Screening
- Dental Exams
- Diabetes Mellitus, type2
- Eye Exams
- Immunizations
- Infectious Disease
- Lung Cancer
- Osteoporosis
- Physical Exams
- Prostate Cancer
- Skin Exams
- Testicular Exams
Health encompasses physical and mental well-being. Men, talk to your doctor about your mental and emotional wellness. Simply spending time and engaging in activities with others can help keep you mentally, physically and emotionally fit. It can also give your brain a boost and lift your mood. So volunteer, or join a community group or another interest group and get involved in activities you enjoy. Local senior centers can help connect you with these groups, or you can often find information on social media.
Healthy Living
Many of the major health risks that men face can be prevented with a healthy lifestyle.
Here are five healthy lifestyle changes men can make, recommended by health experts:
1. Avoid smoking habits and moderate alcohol consumption
2. Manage body weight by considering waist circumference
3. Control blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol and take steps to maintain cognitive health
4. Engage in regular exercise and keep physically active
5. Maintain emotional health, including stress management and good sleep
Sources: Rush University Medical Center, National Institutes of Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Harvard Health, Mayo Clinic Health System, HealthinAging.org, Illinois Department of Central Management Services
