Did you know that women outlive men by an average of 5 years? June is Men’s Health Month, dedicated to raising awareness about health issues that affect men and encouraging men to live a healthy lifestyle.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, men are much less likely to seek medical care than women, for both regular checkups as well as when they have a health concern. Men may think they’re too busy to schedule an appointment, or maybe they don’t feel comfortable going to the doctor. Men also may be afraid of what their doctor will tell them, so they avoid making appointments.

Why do I need an annual physical?

It’s important for everyone to see their health care provider on a regular basis. Getting an annual physical exam lets you and your health care provider assess which areas of your health need attention so they don’t cause bigger health problems in the future. A preventive care physical exam, often considered your annual “checkup,” is an appointment where your provider assesses your overall health and well-being and offers suggestions to maintain or improve your health. During your visit you can discuss your health goals-- whether that be weight loss, reducing your risk of disease or understanding your overall health. Even if you feel like you’re healthy and don’t need to go to the doctor, getting an annual physical is an important step in preventing diseases from developing.

When you see your primary care provider regularly, they get to know you and can learn your family history, so they can provide suggestions to reduce your risk for health conditions that you may be at higher risk for, such as heart disease, diabetes or high blood pressure.

What are health screenings?

Health screenings are medical tests that check for diseases and health conditions before there are any signs or symptoms. Screenings help find problems at an early stage, when diseases are easier to treat and manage.

Heart disease and cancer, specifically prostate cancer, are the leading causes of death for men, and regular screenings can help catch these early and/or help you reduce your future risk. Catching health concerns early can also save you money, as they can often be treated before they need more serious medical care, avoiding bigger medical bills in the future.

Below are general preventive guidelines for healthy adults at low risk for disease. Your provider can help you determine how often you should be screened for the following:

• Blood pressure screening (18+ years of age).
• Depression screening (18+ years of age).
• Flu vaccine (18+ years of age).
• Obesity screening (18+ years of age).
• Osteoporosis screening (18+ years of age).
• Problem drinking screening (18+ years of age).
• Tetanus-Diphtheria-Pertussis booster (18+ years of age).
• Tobacco use screening (18+ years of age).
• Pneumonia vaccine (Ages 18-64 and/or 65+ years of age, based on provider recommendations).
• Colorectal cancer screening (45+ years of age).
• Hearing screening (65+ years of age).
• Vision screening (65+ years of age).

In addition to the above, the below are recommended specifically for men:

• Cholesterol screening (34+ years of age).
• Prostate cancer screening (40+ years of age).
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm (65-75 years of age who have ever smoked).

More information on preventive screenings is available here.

The importance of your mental health

Getting regular physical exams is just one piece of men’s overall health. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Research indicates that men are less likely to report feelings of anxiety or depression than women. Mental health includes emotional, psychological and social well-being. Resources are available for men who want to learn more about taking care of their mental health. Click here to learn more.

Making healthy choices

Living a healthy lifestyle can prevent disease before it starts. Regular exercise has been shown to improve overall physical health, and it has notable mental health benefits as well. The CDC recommends getting 30 minutes of exercise each day. Eating a balanced diet is also an important step in staying healthy.

Men, take an active role in your health and schedule your physical today. From concerns down there to anywhere, your provider is here to help and provide solutions.

You can easily schedule an appointment by calling (888) 277-3832 or find a provider