Men’s Health is No (Dad) Joke
June 4, 2024 | General, Health & Wellness, Resources
Taking Men’s Health Seriously: Tips for a Longer, Healthier Life
Does an apple a day keep the doctor away? Only if you aim it well enough.
All (dad) joking aside, men’s health is an important if sometimes overlooked topic. On average, men die five years sooner than women and are at higher risk for many serious diseases, like heart disease, HIV, and lung cancer. Both Father’s Day and Men’s Health Month occur in June, so it’s the perfect time to support the health of the men we care about.
Stereotypes In Men’s Health
Stereotypes often portray men as strong and resilient, but when it comes to health, they often avoid the topic. Even when in pain or actively sick, men resist medical care. A survey by the Cleveland Clinic found most men would do almost anything — including cleaning the house — over going to the doctor. And when they do go, men are less likely to be forthcoming. Eric Schneider, a former primary care physician, told The Washington Post, “[I]t was not unusual for a couple to come in, …while they were there, the wife would say to her husband, ‘You didn’t tell him this.’”
Reluctance for medical guidance and care can mean worse outcomes; it’s particularly sad since many of the key health issues for men are largely preventable.
Common Health Issues
- Heart disease. The leading cause of death for men in the United States. Factors like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes can increase the risk. But here’s the good part: About 80% of heart disease cases can be prevented through lifestyle changes.
- Type 2 diabetes. This condition occurs when the body cannot regulate and use sugar as a fuel properly; over time, high blood sugar levels can lead to disorders of the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems. About 17.7 million more men have diabetes than women worldwide.
- Prostate cancer. After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in American men; one in eight will be diagnosed with it. Prostate cancer begins when prostate gland cells grow out of control. Early detection is key.
- Depression. Male depression often goes underdiagnosed even though more than 6 million men suffer from it. Symptoms in men may be different from women and show up as anger, aggression, exhaustion or as a physical issue (like a racing heart.). Professional help is crucial.
The power of prevention lies in being proactive about health.
Here’s how men can take charge:
- Get regular screenings. Routine appointments can catch health issues before they become severe. Tests for cholesterol levels, blood pressure, diabetes, prostate health, and colorectal cancer play an important role in monitoring ongoing health.
- Make healthier lifestyle choices. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, reducing alcohol drinking, and avoiding smoking have been shown to dramatically reduce the risk of many health issues.
- Be open to mental health support. Mental well-being is just as important as physical health. In addition to activities that reduce stress (like yoga, walking, and creating art), regular consultations with mental health professionals can make a big difference.
This Father’s Day, instead of the usual ties or tools, consider encouraging the dads in your life to take a step toward better health. Schedule a doctor’s appointment for them or plan a healthy activity that you can do together. Remember, a small step today can lead to a healthier tomorrow.
And, let’s use Men’s Health Month as a reminder that our health is in our hands and by taking preventive measures, we’re not just looking out for ourselves, but for the ones we love. Here’s to strong men and even stronger health!
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Sources: Health.gov; The Washington Post; NIH; Prostate Cancer Foundation; Mayo Clinic; American Cancer Society; NIMH; VeryWell Mind
