Celebrating Men's Health Awareness Month: Insights & Tips for Better Health
posted on Friday, June 14, 2024
June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues and encouraging men to take proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle.
Key Steps to Staying Healthy
Regular checkups and screenings are crucial for maintaining your health. Early detection of health issues through screenings can lead to better treatment outcomes. It is important to stay updated on vaccinations and visit the dentist and eye doctor annually.
Prostate exams and PSA (prostate serum antigen) tests are vital for detecting prostate cancer early. The average age for a prostate exam is 50, but screenings may start as early as 45 for some. June is also Prostate Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
Vaccinations & Cancer Prevention
The HPV vaccine is recommended for everyone ages 11-26. For those older than 26 years of age, discussing the benefits of the HPV vaccine with a doctor is advised. The vaccine is most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, typically during adolescent years.
The increasing number of cases of head and neck cancers, more common in men, can be prevented with the help of the HPV vaccine. Other risk factors for cancer include tobacco use and alcohol consumption.
Other Essential Cancer Screenings for Men
Lung cancer screenings are crucial for smokers. Spencer Hospital offers a CT lung screening program. Annual skin checks are also important for detecting early signs of skin cancer. Being aware of symptoms such as a lump in the neck, a persistent mouth sore, hoarseness, pain when swallowing, or unexplained weight loss can lead to early detection of esophageal and head/neck cancers.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle for Men
Daily self-care is key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This includes:
- Eating more fruits, veggies, whole foods, and lean proteins.
- Getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily, or 150 minutes weekly.
- Limiting alcohol consumption.
- Avoid smoking.
- Ensuring 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
- Managing stress effectively.
Mental health is equally important. Be mindful of your emotional state and seek help if needed. The suicide and crisis lifeline is available 24/7 for support; all you need to do is call 988.
Conclusion
Men’s Health Month is an opportunity to address the health challenges men face and take proactive steps toward better health. Regular checkups, screenings, vaccinations, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are fundamental. Let us use this month to educate ourselves and the men in our lives about the importance of health awareness and early detection.
- men's health