Even the strongest men can have their health fail in a moment. For men who suffer a stroke or get a new diagnosis of cancer, life changes instantly. Many of the health risks that men face can actually be prevented and treated with earlier diagnosis, yet men are less likely to visit a health care provider than women are.
"There is nothing weak about being the healthiest you can be," says Paige Behm. "June is Men's Health Month -- a good time for men to reflect on their lifestyle choices and how their health impacts the people they care about."
Men can prevent many health issues by living a healthy lifestyle that includes 7 -- 9 hours of sleep each night, healthy food choices, daily physical activity, reducing tobacco use and minimizing stress.
Screening tests are also important to men's health. They can often find diseases early, when they are easier to treat. That's why it is so important for men to schedule regular exams and screenings -- for the sake of their own health and their families.
All men should have an annual blood pressure test and rectal exam. They should get a TB skin test every five years and a tetanus booster every 10 years. They should also do monthly self-exams of their testicles, breasts, mouth and skin to look for lumps, lesions, or changing moles or freckles. Smokers over age 45 should talk to their health care provider about chest x-rays. Men over 40 should ask about testosterone screening, and men over 60 should ask about bone mineral density testing. All men should talk to their health care provider about STD testing and recommended immunizations.
Men 50 or older need an annual exam, including urinalysis, blood testing, EKG, PSA blood test, hemoccult test, blood pressure and a rectal exam. They should also have colorectal screening every 3-4 years. Men 40 -- 49 years old should have an exam every two years, including urinalysis, blood test, hemoccult test and EKG. Men 20-39 should get an exam every three years and should have a baseline EKG done at age 30. To view a full schedule of recommended screenings, visit http://ow.ly/NRDWF.
"Taking care of yourself is part of being the best man you can be," adds Behm. "Take control of your health today, guys. Do it for yourself and for your families!
•••
Public health -- working every day for healthier families, healthier communities, healthier YOU! Learn more on Facebook, by calling 417-223-7122 or by visiting www.mcdonaldcountyhealth.com.
General News on 05/31/2018