Four things you need to know about men's health
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Content warning: This article mentions suicide. We encourage you to reach out for help from mental health professionals.
Healthcare should be as individual as you. Your Village Health Partners physician focuses on caring for you based on your health, risk factors, age, gender and more, and it’s helpful to understand certain aspects of health that are personal to you. Here’s our guide to what you should know about your health during Men’s Health Month.
You should see your physician regularly.
Did you know men are 33 percent less likely to see a doctor than women? Don’t fall behind in your health! Establishing a relationship with your physician can help you have a baseline of your health and can help catch diseases early so they can be prevented, not treated. Plus, annual physicals are usually covered by insurance.
Men are more likely to have a heart attack.
While heart disease is the leading cause of death for all Americans, and men are more likely to die from heart disease than women, with nearly one out of four deaths being attributed to this. However, there is good news! You can take steps to lower your blood pressure and control diabetes, which can help prevent heart disease.
Prostate cancer is more common than you think.
One in nine men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime, and catching prostate cancer early is key. The five-year survival rate is nearly 100 percent if the cancer is localized! Prostate cancer screenings are regular parts of annual physicals for men 50 years and older, but it’s important to discuss your risks or concerns with your physician.
Taking care of your mental health is vitally important.
Suicide is a leading cause of death among men. It’s important to watch for signs of depression – within yourself and with those around you – and offer support. It’s always acceptable to reach out for help (and we absolutely encourage it), and professionals can help you work through problems and develop skills for improving your mental health. You can also take a first step by speaking openly with your physician about your mental well-being.
Do you need someone to talk to? Meet our counselors here.
Quick tips:
- Focus on your whole-person wellness. Your mental health is important to your overall health, and it’s important to incorporate activities that help your mental well-being. Reaching out for help can help you live your healthiest and happiest life.
- Lifestyle choices are important. Incorporate healthy choices like regular exercise, limiting alcohol consumption and sticking to a healthy diet.
- Keep up with your annual physicals to maintain a baseline of your health and your relationship with your physician.
Are you ready to schedule an appointment with a physician, counselor or dietitian? Click below!
