Men’s Health Month is recognized every June as a way to raise awareness about men’s healthcare and encourage males in our community to implement healthy lifestyles. Important preventative care starts with annual wellness exams, routine screenings, a nutritious diet and daily physical activity.

Statistically, men are less proactive about their healthcare than women. A survey conducted by The Cleveland Clinic showed that 40 percent of men only visit the doctor after a serious health issue arises and many rarely schedule routine checkups. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the average life expectancy for U.S. men is about 5 years less than women, and 1 in 2 men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime.

Leading causes of death in men include heart disease, cancer, unintentional injuries, chronic lower respiratory disease and stroke. Though these are common diseases that can affect anyone, men also need to be aware of unique issues such as prostate cancer and benign prostate enlargement, according to Harvard Health. Annual exams and regular screenings help detect these types of disease and other common men’s health issues earlier, when treatment is more effective.

Matters of the Heart

Heart disease is the number one cause of death among men, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, accounting for 1 in every 4 male deaths. Half of men who die suddenly of coronary heart disease did not present symptoms.

To reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke:

  • Get your cholesterol checked starting at age 25 and every 5 years after.
  • Control high blood pressure and cholesterol (if applicable).
  • Quit smoking.
  • Increase fruit and vegetable intake and reduce consumption of saturated or trans fats.
  • Get at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week.

Prostate Problems

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found among men in the U.S. and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths, according to the American Cancer Society. It’s more likely to affect men older than 50, African American men, those with a family history of the disease and men with high-fat diets. Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) screenings are recommended to patients with these factors or who are showing symptoms.

Benign prostatic hypertrophy, also known as BPH or enlarged prostate, is also common in older men, according to the National Institute on Aging. It is treated by active surveillance, medications, surgery or other methods recommended by your provider.

Mental Health

According to Mental Health America, more than 6 million men suffer from depression each year; however, male depression often goes undiagnosed. Rather than feelings of sadness or worthlessness, men are more likely to report symptoms such as fatigue, irritability and loss of interest in work or hobbies.

If you are noticing signs of depression, don’t be afraid to reach out to someone you trust or to schedule an appointment with a licensed mental health practitioner. Family members, check on the men in your life and encourage them to be open about their feelings and offer support where needed.

Mental health is one of many areas addressed during a routine physical, in addition to vital checks and tests for conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity and heart disease. The goal of our providers at Prowers Medical Center Clinic is to ensure men stay up to date with their health to avoid emergency medical issues later in life.

Get your screenings, lab work and annual exams completed at Prowers Medical Center. Currently taking place is our annual health fair, where patients can have their labs drawn at a significantly discounted price. Lab results are sent to the patient and their primary healthcare provider to review to ensure they are on right track with their health. To schedule a health fair screening, call 719-336-8363.

To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider at Prowers Medical Center Clinic, call 719-336-6767.