Did you know that June is also known as National Men’s Health Month? Here at Montes Medical Group, we know how important it is to spotlight men’s health issues to support the well-being of people all around the country. For these reasons, June is a great time to talk to the men in your life about preventative & protective health measures they can take. Doing so can reduce their chances of developing chronic diseases and other unwanted health problems in the long term.
Men’s health can sometimes be overlooked in the realm of public health. Unfortunately, men are less likely than women to visit their doctors for annual exams and preventative services. Men are also more likely to die from most of the top causes of death, such as heart disease and cancer. Why is this you ask? There are many reasons such as cultural norms, stigmas around men getting medical care, and a lack of awareness about health risks specific to men.
Fortunately, there are many steps we can take to ensure men’s health is considered and protected in our communities. Keep reading below to learn about important statistics regarding men’s health in the United States, along with some tips for living a healthier life.
Common Men’s Health Concerns
While some diseases can affect anyone, there are certain illnesses that men are more susceptible to, such as:
Cardiovascular Disease: Heart disease is actually the leading cause of death among men. Getting regular check-ups, eating a nutritious diet, and remaining active can support cardiovascular health over time.
Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers found in men. Fortunately, early detection is possible through screens and can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Mental Health Issues: Men often struggle with mental health issues when they avoid discussing their lives and problems with others. Doing so can increase isolation, loneliness, and the risk of depression and even suicide. Encouraging men to have open conversations and use mental health resources can make a positive impact in this regard.
Testicular Cancer: While rare, testicular cancer can be common in young men between the ages of 15-35. Taking the time to conduct regular self-exams can help ensure early detection and successful treatment.
The Importance of Men’s Health Exams
Men’s health exams are essential for identifying and treating potential health concerns before they arise. In fact, many conditions such as prostate cancer can show no symptoms at the onset. By the time you experience serious complications, treatment may be much more difficult. Here at Montes Medical Group, we can run diagnostic testing and help detect signs of medical issues before they become serious.
Any physical includes measuring height and weight, and checking vital signs like temperature, blood pressure, breathing rate, and heart rate, then doing a thorough physical examination.
A man’s annual checkup will also involve the following exams unique to males:
Hernia exam: There are many different types of hernias, but because the lower abdominal wall in males is prone to weakness, doctors will check the area to evaluate the risk of the bladder or intestines bulging through. This usually entails checking the scrotum while the male coughs.
Prostate exam: In order to check for an enlarged prostate, which could indicate a number of issues, the doctor will typically perform a quick rectal exam to gauge its size.
Tips for Improving Men’s Health
Men can increase their chances of living long and healthy lives in many great ways. Let’s explore some of these methods below:
Building Trust in Their Medical Providers
Men can benefit greatly when they develop a good relationship with their healthcare provider. By visiting their doctor regularly, men can build trust and feel more comfortable discussing any health concerns or problems they might have. These professionals can make it easier to navigate both physical and mental health challenges that may come up, and provide support in a timely and beneficial manner.
Make Time for Enjoying Life
Men can often rack up many responsibilities and work obligations in their daily life. For these reasons, it’s important that they also carve out time just for themselves. Taking the time to prioritize enjoyment can ensure stress levels aren’t at unhealthy levels and even prevent certain health problems from developing. Taking the time to identify and develop healthy outlets for joy and stress relief is essential for long-term well-being. This also includes limiting unhealthy or risky behaviors such as excessive alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking, and unsafe sex practices.
Managing Prostate Health
As men age, their prostate gland grows which can sometimes lead to urinary symptoms. Men may find themselves urinating very often throughout the day or even having less than desired urine flow. Talking to healthcare providers about prostate health is essential and drinking fluids can help prevent unwanted issues.
Make the Time to Prioritize Men’s Health
Our team here at Montes Medical Group encourages all men to take a proactive role in the management of their health. Make an appointment with our team today to get a physical exam and discuss any health problems or concerns you may have. By prioritizing your health today, men can increase their chances of living a healthier life tomorrow.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.