HIS HEALTH MATTERS

By Beverly Calero

Designated as Men’s Health Month, June offers a unique opportunity to promote wellness and raise awareness about issues that are relevant specifically to men. Here are a few essential exams and health tips that can keep every man living and performing at his best!

Preventative Measures:

• Get plenty of rest. Getting a good night’s sleep and waking up well-rested lowers the risk of chronic conditions like diabetes, obesity, depression and other cardiovascular diseases.

• Get plenty of exercise. To improve overall cardiovascular health, the AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION/STROKE ASSOCIATION suggests that adults get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise or 75 minutes per week of vigorous exercise (or a combination of moderate and vigorous activity).

• Eat well to live well. Pack his diet with a variety of fruits and vegetables that will provide rich sources of vitamins and minerals to help preserve your health. Limiting foods that are high in sugar, salt, and fat can also help with maintaining a healthy diet.

• Reduce Stress. Stress can lead to moments that can overwhelm an individual and can be detrimental to anyone’s health – including men.

• Get regular checkups. Just like you get a tune up or your car’s oil changed every 3,000 miles, your body needs to be seen by an expert on a regular basis! Routine visits can prevent diseases at an early stage and can help detect those with hardly any symptoms.

Guys – ask your physician to perform the following exams during your next “tune-up” to ensure that you are and will continue to perform at your peak:

• PSA Blood Test
• Colorectal Health
• Tetanus Booster
• Hemoccult
• Chest X-Ray
• TB Skin Test
• Rectal Exam

Getting these exams, in combination with living an overall healthy lifestyle, can put you on track to leading a happy and healthy life for many years to come!

Early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys can mean the difference, not only in quality of life, but in life and death, as well. Throughout the month of June, health care providers, public policy makers, the media, and individuals are urged to encourage men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.  For more information and vital men’s health resources, please visit: http://www.menshealthmonth.org/