June is Men’s Health Month! Across the United States, it’s a time for men to focus on their specific health issues, get screened, visit health fairs, participate in health education, be part of outreach activities and also make media appearances.
Why is Men’s Health Month Important?
Did you know that men are 25 percent less likely than women to have visited a doctor within the past year? If health was as simple as walking into a community pharmacy and popping a pill, there would no need to raise awareness about health issues that can and should be prevented. Men’s Health Month exists to increase awareness of various men’s health issues, along with the critical importance of early diagnosis and treatment for diseases that are common among men and boys.
Throughout this month, doctors, policy makers, healthcare providers, individuals and media try to encourage men to educate themselves and their sons, consult doctors if necessary, get medical advice and seek early treatment for diseases and injuries.
Blue for Heart Health
Heart disease is common among men, but many tend to ignore the signs and symptoms. This prevents them from seeking early diagnosis and treatment. Did you know heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States? If you did not, now is the time to wake up and seek early intervention.
Your lifestyle habits and diet have a major impact on your health. You are at a higher risk of developing heart disease if you…
- Use tobacco
- Have elevated blood pressure
- Have diabetes
- Have a family history of heart disease
- Are obese
- Have high LDL and low HDL cholesterol levels
- Are over 45 years of age
As a man, if you fit any of the risk factors, you definitely should visit your doctor and find out ways to decrease your risk by devising a proper health care plan. In many cases, a lifestyle change that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise is sufficient to reduce your risk.
Preventing Heart Disease
Remember, prevention is always better than a cure. Where heart disease is concerned, you actually can prevent it by taking a few steps.
- Reduce your intake of saturated fats by avoiding fried and processed foods
- Exercise five to six days a week for at least 30 minutes each time
- Eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats
- If you are overweight, reduce carbohydrate and calorie intake
If you have already been diagnosed with heart disease, consult your doctor about light exercises and consider asking a qualified nutritionist to help plan a healthier daily diet. Also, do not forget to visit the community pharmacy to pick up your prescribed medication and take as instructed.
Prostate Cancer
Another important issue related to men’s health is prostate cancer. Behind skin cancer, it is the most common type of cancer among men. And just like heart disease, making healthy lifestyle choice can aid in the prevention of this disease…
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get plenty of exercise
- Eat fruits, vegetables and healthy fats
This June, during Men’s Health Month, make health your priority and also use the month to educate your friends and family about heart disease and other health problems that are common among men and boys. And if you’re wondering about additional steps you can take to prevent and treat specific health issues in men and boys, please don’t hesitate to speak with a staff member at [company_short].