If you happen to be a man reading this, try asking yourself… When was the last time I went to my doctor’s office for a routine checkup? For a substantial amount of you the answer is “not recently or I am not sure”. 

Routine Screening: 

According to a study taken by the Cleveland Clinic, nearly 60 percent of men do not regularly see a doctor unless they are experiencing life threatening or severe circumstances. It was shown that women are more likely to seek out medical care than men, and men are two times as likely to wait more than a couple of years between doctors’ appointments. Why is this so important you might ask. Men should inquire about their health status routinely, on an annual basis, and as they get older. As the body ages, it requires more nutrients, care, and attention. Prevalent disease and disability in men include Prostate Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Hypertension, Hernias, Cirrhosis, Colon Cancer and much more. Do not skip routine screening, see your doctor, and make sure your health is a priority.

Cut out high risk behavior: 

Refrain from negative habits such as tobacco and alcohol use. According to the CDC men partake in smoking tobacco and binge drinking at a much higher rate than the average women living in the United States. Cigarette smoking continues to be the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the US. Now with the combination of cigarettes, electronic cigarettes and vapes have emerged to be very popular among young adults across the United States. In reference to the National Health Interview Survey taken by the CDC, current users of e cigarettes and vapes were highest among men, ages 18-24. It is imperative that younger men along with the older generation cut back on smoking and drinking; these harmful habits lead to a compromised immune system and limits body function.

Rebuild and restart:

It is essential for men to take proper supplements and vitamins to ensure their bodies are receiving sufficient nutrients and minerals that are vital to their well-being. Men and women have different nutritional needs that changes along with age. Recent study shows men of all ages are lacking essential nutrients in almost every category. In reference to the United States Department of Agriculture, men need to eat 350 percent more dark green vegetables and 150 percent more fruit to meet federal guidelines. Being that it is highly unlikely for all men to have or maintain the proper nutritional diet their bodies need, they can use vitamins and supplements as an alternative to help fill the nutritional gaps. Essential vitamins for men include Vitamin D, Folate, Vitamin C, Calcium, Vitamin A, Magnesium, and Vitamin B12. Consult with your physician to find out what your body is lacking and how you can replenish your deficiencies. 

Be active:

When men are physically active and regularly exercise, it lowers the risk of them having chronic disease and illness. Staying physically active can serve as a tool for maintaining a healthier body, as well as lower stress, anxiety, and be overall impactful to one’s mental health. Consistent exercise among men has proven to lower unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels, lead to healthier blood flow and cells throughout the body, slows bone loss, and helps alleviate the stress on the body due to the natural stiffening of arteries that’s comes along with aging. Being active is a lifestyle choice that should be adopted by all, especially in reference to maintaining overall health and the well-being of an individual.

Mental Health:

When thinking about one’s health or leading a more sustainable lifestyle, our brain automatically goes to our bodies and physical health when in fact mental health is just as important. Mental health includes one’s emotional, psychological, and social wellbeing. Surveys and studies taken around the world shows that men are less likely to seek out treatment for mental health in comparison to women. When speaking about mental health, there are certain stigmas associated with the idea that in turn deter men from seeking help. Depression and suicide are among the top causes of death prevalent in men. It is estimated that nearly 6 million are affected annually by mental health illnesses such as depression. We need to drop the stigmas and stereotypes surrounding mental health and make an effort to achieve a mentally balanced lifestyle. 

The focus of this piece is to raise awareness of preventable health issues and encourage men to seek medical care, not only for a serious concern but routinely as they get older. Living a healthier lifestyle should be a top priority in everyone’s life, the greatest wealth is health! Together we have the power to Cure!