June - National Men’s Health Month
June is celebrated as Men’s Health Month, with a focus on increasing awareness of men’s health issues and promoting education and activities to foster a healthy lifestyle for men and boys.
TOP MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES
- Cardiovascular Disease: 1 out of every 3 men have some form of cardiovascular disease.
- Respiratory Disease/COPD/Lung Cancer: The number of men with this disease increases each year.
- Prostate Cancer: This type of cancer affects 1 out of every 6 men.
- Depression and Suicide: 1 in 4 men have reported symptoms of depression to their doctors.
- Skin Cancer: Men over 50 are at the highest risk for developing skin cancer, twice as likely as women.
- Diabetes: 51% of those with adult diabetes are men.
Whether you’re a man in your 20s, 30, 40s, or 50-plus, there are many reasons to regularly see a doctor. Every 10 years you’ll encounter a few new health recommendations.
Here’s an overview of some of the changes to expect each decade.
Men’s health in your 20s
Even if you feel healthy, it’s important to establish a relationship with a primary care doctor. This can be your go-to doctor for every question and concern. Lots of changes happen in your 20s. Many men are on their own after previously living at home or college. That means a new diet. Maybe some long, eight-hour workdays sitting in front of a computer. Dramatic diet and exercise changes can affect your health.
Your doctor will let you know if a physical exam is needed every year. Also, whether your blood pressure should be checked every year (or two). Remember to get a flu shot every year.
Men’s health in your 30s
Many men in their 30s start encountering some orthopedic problems. The body stops doesn’t heal quite as quickly as it used to. You’ll also notice some metabolism changes. You might have to work a little harder to maintain muscle mass and to keep off the extra pounds. Your doctor will help you stay active and healthy.
Starting at age 35, it’s important to check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels every five years. You should also continue the physical exams and blood pressure checks you started in your 20s. And keep getting those flu shots.
Men’s health in your 40s
When you hit your 40s, you’re likely to start noticing changes with your vision. You’re also more likely to encounter acute injuries, like hernias.
Talk to your doctor about prostate cancer screening guidelines and the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test. Most men start colon cancer screenings at age 50, but you may need to start earlier if you have a parent or sibling with colon cancer. Next to skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer among men. Learning more about what prostate cancer is and your risk factors can help identify potential issues earlier. And remember to keep up with physical exams, blood pressure checks and cholesterol screenings.
Men’s health when you’re 50 plus
When you turn 50, that’s usually the magic age to start colon cancer screenings. It’s also time to start paying much closer attention to your heart. Continue to make regular visits to your doctor so you can stay ahead of any serious health conditions. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t wait. Your doctor is always there to help.
Taking steps, however big or small, to improve your health can make a huge difference on the life you live. Consider this month how you might make a lifestyle change in recognition of National Men’s Safety Month to take charge of your health and well-being. Whether you’re a Grandfather, father, or son, improving your health is a great way to take care of yourself and those you love.