June is Men’s Health Month: 5 Things Older Men Should Know

Men are typically more likely to avoid scheduling routine check-ups or visit their healthcare provider for symptoms relating to health problems. As a result, men’s health is often put on the back burner when it comes to early detection and prevention. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In honor of Men’s Health Month, we’re taking on this topic, and we're sharing why it’s relevant all 12 months out of the year. Learn five things (and more) older men should know about their health...

The Importance of Men’s Health Awareness

June is designated as the month to raise awareness on men’s health. Healthcare providers use this as an opportunity to encourage regular check-ups, offer advice, and make diagnoses. It is the perfect time of year to address concerns, questions, and issues. And, if nothing else, it's an excuse to start a conversation about health with someone you would typically tread lightly around.

Taking Control

Making your health a priority is important to living a vibrant, active, and healthy life at any age. Take a proactive approach by following these simple lifestyle tips:

• Eat Natural Foods
• Stay Active
• Get Your Prostate Checked
• Avoid Unhealthy Habits
• Protect Your Skin
• Visit Your Doctor

So why are men’s health issues not always taken seriously by men? That’s the burning question... Men are notorious for avoiding the doctor and ignoring unusual symptoms. It’s important for men to stay vigilant about their health. Yearly check-ups will monitor blood pressure, body fat, and cholesterol levels; these are key risk factors for cardiovascular disease, all the more reason to schedule and keep annual appointments on the books.

5 Things Men Should Know About Their Health

To stress the importance of routine screening, the following guidelines are recommended for men age 30 and older:

• Complete physical every two years
• Blood pressure checked every year
• Cancer screening for thyroid, testicles, lymph nodes, mouth, and skin every three years
• Testicular self-exam every month
• Cholesterol test every three years

In addition, starting at age 50, men at average risk for developing colorectal cancer should have a colonoscopy every ten years or as determined by their healthcare provider.

Here are the five things men should monitor for good health:

1. Blood Pressure - Sustained blood pressure can have a long-term affect on the body. Over time, this can lead to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other health problems. Detecting high blood pressure early is key.

2. Cholesterol - High cholesterol levels can lead to heart disease, making it vital to check cholesterol regularly.

3. Blood Sugar - Our body requires and uses blood sugar for energy. Having too much sugar in the blood can indicate diabetes. When glucose levels are elevated, health problems may occur.

4. Testosterone - According to the Mayo Clinic, testosterone levels don’t cause signs and symptoms of aging. It is important to determine if testosterone levels are normal signs of aging or if it’s due to a disorder.

5. Cancer Screenings - This six-letter “C” word is sensitive for everyone. Routine check ups to identify benchmarks are critical for development and prevention. It’s not a risk worth waiting on. Catching cancer early is critical.

Healthy Living at Walker Methodist

At Walker Methodist, we believe age is just a number. We advocate for prevention and detection at any age. And, we understand that as older adults face more change, it’s vital to understand how it impacts wellness and quality of life. Following the lifestyle tips and keeping a tab on men’s health issues is just as important to you as it is to us.