Each June, we recognize National Men’s Health Month to bring awareness to health and wellness needs specific to men. Research shows that men, on average, live 5 years less than women. This is not surprising, considering men also have a higher risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, mental health issues, and stroke. However, it’s not all bad news. With a few simple lifestyle modifications, men can reduce their risk for many of these conditions, leading to a longer, healthier life.
Tip 1: Schedule Annual Wellness Visits
The first step men can take towards a healthier life is to schedule an annual wellness visit with their primary care provider. Yearly checkups are vital to the prevention and early detection of many serious medical conditions. It’s important to talk to your primary care provider about routine screenings and other tests recommended for men. Don’t wait until you are sick to go to the doctor. Establish a relationship with them through your wellness exams so that you can work together towards your health and wellness needs.
Tip 2: Don’t Forget Your Mental Health
Another step men can take towards a healthier life is to talk to their healthcare provider about their mental health. One in ten men will experience depression or anxiety at some point in their life, but less than half receive treatment for it. This may be because men are less likely to speak up about their mental health than women. This is especially concerning because three-quarters of all suicides involve men. By having a discussion with your doctor, you can work towards strengthening not only your mental health, but your overall health as well.
Tip 3: Don’t Rely on Multivitamins
Your mom may have said to always take your vitamins, but a multivitamin is no substitute for healthy lifestyle choices like exercising and eating a balanced diet. Unless your doctor has recommended you take a daily vitamin for a specific health concern, experts agree it’s more beneficial to meet your nutritional needs through diet than by taking a pill. Also, keep in mind it’s not just multivitamins that are worth a second look. Store shelves are full of other supplements, which are heavily promoted for all kinds of health benefits, most of which have no scientific evidence to support their use. So, while supplements may seem like a quick fix, always talk to your doctor before implementing them into your routine.
“Unless your doctor has recommended you take a daily vitamin for a specific health concern, experts agree it’s more beneficial to meet your nutritional needs through diet than by taking a pill.”
Ellie Lane, ©2020, Clemson Extension
Tip 4: Use Sunscreen
On average, men spend more time in the sun than their female counterparts, which could put them at higher risk of developing certain types of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher daily. If you plan to be outdoors for several hours, use a water-resistant, broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and remember to reapply every two hours. Also, remember to check your skin regularly and report any new or changing growths to your primary doctor or dermatologist right away.
Men may be at an increased risk for a number of health issues, but they can reduce their risk by living a healthy lifestyle and following the above tips. As June comes to an end, let’s spread the message behind National Men’s Health Month and encourage all the men in our lives to take charge of their health and wellness today.
Related Resources:
https://hgic.clemson.edu/mens-health-how-to-gain-points-for-your-scorecard/
https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/coping-with-stress-and-mental-health/
Sources:
- “Do Multivitamins Work? Who Should and Shouldn’t Take Them.” Cleveland Clinic. © 2024 Cleveland Clinic. 29 August 2022. Web. 19 June 2024.
- “Men’s Mental Health.” Anxiety & Depression Association of America. © 2024 ADAA. N.d. Web. 19 June 2024.
- “National Men’s Health Month.” BlueCross BlueShield of Mississippi. © 2007-2024, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi. N.d. Web. 19 June 2024.
