Men’s Health Week

The week before Father’s Day is Men’s Health Week.  The goal is to raise awareness of the health issues that can affect men.

Private Home Health Care checked online and found that on average women live five years longer than men.  We discovered a couple of things that contributed to this.

One is biological.  Men are biologically more susceptible to some diseases.  Another thought is the way men approach their health.  Do you have a man in your life who doesn’t like to visit the doctor?  This often leads to coming in on a health issue late.

Basically there are a few diseases that lead the pack with men, more so than women.  They include:

Cardiovascular disease – hardening of the arteries or atherosclerosis can lead to heart disease and stroke.  This is actually the leading cause of death in both women and men but men succumb to it sooner.

• Check your cholesterol, starting at age 25 and every 5 years.
• Make sure your blood pressure is not high.
• You need to stop smoking if you are a smoker.
• Take part in 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables.

Lung Cancer – many men still smoke which causes 90% of lung cancers. Stop smoking.

Prostate Cancer – in men, prostate cancer is second only to skin cancer in common cancers.  It’s important for you to meet with your doctor to be monitored as it is very treatable.

Depression and Suicide – you may think that depression refers more to women then men but if often comes down to the way men handle depression. Be aware.  There are many treatments for depression. Your doctor can help discuss treatments best for you. 

Diabetes – this is a silent disease.  Since 2000, one-in-three boys has a chance of getting diabetes.  Obesity is a huge factor so diet and exercise are key. 

The good news for you as a man is that a healthy lifestyle including a diet with lots of fruit and vegetables and exercise can help prevent these diseases.  Regular check ups with your doctor are also key. Seize the day this week!