Men’s Health: The Importance of Preventive Care

We know—life is busy and the last thing you want to add to your to-do list is a doctor’s appointment.  But the importance of preventive care cannot be overstated, especially for men. Being proactive with annual exams and healthy lifestyle choices, and addressing health issues as soon as they arise are the most effective ways to increase not only how long you live, but how good you feel and how happy you are.

The Problem: Men Die Sooner and Engage in Riskier Behavior

Across the globe, men generally have shorter lifespans than women (typically by 4-6 years). This is due to a combination of biological, behavioral, and societal factors. But one of the main reasons is men’s reluctance to engage in preventive healthcare. In fact, men make half as many preventive physician visits than women. All too often, the result is delayed disease diagnosis and treatment. The crucial takeaway? Increasing men’s preventive health and screenings can add years to their lives.

Factors That Put Men at High Risk

Along with higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and suicide, there are several reasons men tend to die earlier than women.

• Men engage in more risk-taking behaviors like smoking, hazardous drinking, and recreational drug use
• Men are employed in more dangerous occupations, such as mining, firefighting, and construction
• Men eat less fruit and vegetables, and more red and processed meat
• Men are more likely to suffer from mental health issues like anxiety and depression
• Men and boys are encouraged to “tough things out” rather than ask for help

Simple Ways Men Can Be More Proactive About Their Health

There are lots of ways men can start taking better care of themselves. Men of every age should start with an annual exam and lab work, which can help their provider determine if any additional screenings are needed. For more details on that and essential screenings for different ages, here’s what we recommend:

Routine Check-Ups for Men

Whether you’re a 20-something or you just received your AARP card, one thing remains the same: the importance of regular checkups with your Primary Care provider. These visits are essential for early detection and prevention of various health conditions, and give individuals a better chance of successful treatment and positive outcomes. Routine check-ins with a Mental Health provider are also a great idea. They can help with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, and more.

Essential Health Tests for Men

While age determines what annual exams and labs you’ll need, individual and family history, and lifestyle also come into play. Your provider will take all this into account when deciding what tests make sense for you. Here are some general screening guidelines by stage of life.

Early Adulthood (18-39)

This is the time for establishing healthy habits and screenings for early signs of health issues. Blood-pressure monitoring and cholesterol checks are routine. STD tests may make sense for some. And skin cancer screenings are important, especially for those with a history of sunburns or tanning. Mental Health screenings are also always a good idea.

Middle Age (40-59)

More targeted screenings are necessary as men enter their 40s. Screening for colon cancer is extremely important, as both colonoscopy and stool testing greatly reduce deaths from the disease. Prostate cancer screenings via PSA tests are something to consider depending on personal risk factors. Men aged 55 and up will benefit most from this screening, as cancer is most likely to occur at this time. Diabetes screenings may make sense for some, as well. Your doctor will help you decide what tests you should get.

Older Adults (60-plus)

As men get older, screenings are crucial. Cardiovascular health is of prime concern. Regular blood pressure and cholesterol checks along with EKGs are key to monitoring heart health. Cancer screenings should continue, and bone-density tests are helpful for assessing the risk of falls and fractures caused by osteoporosis. Regular cognitive health evaluations are also vital for detecting early signs of dementia.

Holistic Lifestyle Habits for Optimal Health

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is another significant piece of the preventive-care puzzle. To achieve and maintain optimal health, it’s fundamental for men to eat a nutritious diet, engage in regular exercise, get good sleep, and have effective tools for managing stress.

• Nutrition and Diet: A balanced diet is at the core of good health. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Drink lots of water and limit alcohol intake. Maintaining a healthy weight is key for reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions.
• Physical Activity: Nothing beats regular exercise for helping with cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility, not to mention enhancing one’s quality of life. Choose an activity you enjoy–walking, running, playing basketball, or hitting the gym. The most important thing is to get moving and avoid prolonged sedentary behavior.
• Sleep: Get to bed earlier! Both quality sleep and a consistent sleep routine are essential for good health. Shoot for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal mood regulation, mental clarity, and immune function. P.S. Limit screen time right before bed for improved Zzzs.
• Stress Management and Mental Health: The mind-body connection is real, which is why prioritizing Mental Health is important. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being. If you’re struggling with something more serious, like anxiety or depression, a Mental Health provider can help.

It’s time to take charge of your health and make preventive care a part of your life, for the rest of your life. You and your family will feel better, happier, and healthier for it.

Make an appointment with your Primary Care provider to come up with a game plan and connect with a Mental Health provider if you need support.