By Dr. Janet Seabrook
They are fathers, husbands, brothers, sons, nephews, grandsons, cousins, friends and more! We all have men in our lives whom we care about, and June is the perfect time to love on them during Men’s Health Awareness Month. Being a health advocate for our men is a fantastic and even lifesaving way to show how much we care.
The stigma still stands that men do not like visiting a physician and often wait until health conditions worsen before seeking medical attention. As their health advocates, it is important to be armed with accurate information to keep the men in your life focused on healthy habits and regular check-ups.
In this article, I will cover a few health conditions that men often face, and things advocates can do to offer support:
Let’s start with one of our most important organs, the heart. Overall cardiovascular health and heart disease are major concerns for men. In addition to regular health screenings, there are preventative measures like exercise and healthier food choices such as fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats and low-fat dairy. Most importantly, do not ignore any irregularities such as repeated elevated heart rate, chest pains, shortness of breath, etc.
Mental Health is definitely an area that needs more attention when it comes to the well-being of men. Health advocates are encouraged to learn more about the signs of depression and anxiety as well as the benefits of seeking professional help. Hearing this type of information and advice from a friend or loved one may be better received and can result in actually getting the men in your circle to seek the assistance they need.
The following is a list of other suggested screening and tips for a healthier lifestyle:
Cancer Prevention and Screening: Early detection increases the likelihood of a better outcome when it comes to prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancers. Schedule regular screenings and alert your physician should some type of irregular symptoms arise.
Diabetes: Studies show that Type 2 diabetes in men can be linked to various lifestyle factors. Here are some to implement to lower risks in developing diabetes and other ailments:
• Healthy Eating
• Regular Exercise
• Quitting Tobacco
• Prioritizing Sleep
• Stress Management
• Staying Hydrated
While there is no silver bullet to solve our concerns around Men’s health, the activities and topics listed above are a great way to get the ball rolling for the men in your life. Remember, when we serve as health advocates, our men have greater odds at better health!
Your health matters!