The state of men’s health is just as critical as their failure to celebrate International Men’s Day. As compared to women, men don’t get regular checkups.
There has been a result of many deaths due to irregular concern for their health. The fact that you should visit a hospital for regular checkups does not make you a less important man, rather it prevents an untimely death from occurring.
For a more enjoyable family time, here are some checks you need to schedule now.
- Blood Sugar
Keeping your glucose level under control can reduce the likelihood of cardiac disease. Having diabetes puts you at risk of heart disease, kidney damage, erectile dysfunction etc. Detecting diabetes early is crucial to managing it. Glucose testing annually can help detect diabetes.
- Skin Check
Get your skin checked by a dermatologist yearly, at home, ensure you keep watch on the moles or birthmarks as slight changes can signify etiology. This is most important if you have a family history of skin cancer.
- Prostate Cancer Test
Other than skin cancer, this is the most common form of cancer in men. A PSA level test, along with a digital rectal exam (DRE) or prostate specific antigen, is the most effective screening for prostate cancer. It is recommended that men between the ages of 50 and 70 have their prostates checked yearly. If you have an unknown family history of prostate cancer, you should start testing at the age of 40.
- Obesity
Aside from being physically active, the best way to achieve a healthy weight is by eating better. It is important to manage weight to prevent disease. Obese men have a waist of over 35 inches and at the risk of heart attack, stroke, depression and much more. A BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 is considered healthy, a BMI above 25 is overweight and a BMI above 30 os obese.
- Mental Health Screening
Millions of men suffer from depression yearly and many of them are under-treated or under diagnosed. Men also suffer from excessive stress which can be connected to mental health concerns such as anxiety. When you having suicidal thoughts for more that two weeks or experiencing feelings of loneliness, lack of excitement, mood changes, prolonged sadness etc please reach out to your doctor to be screened for depression.
2 out of 5 men get an annual check up and this makes them short lived.
Getting regular screenings may not be convenient or easy, but it’s worth the effort. Healthy living is about making the right choices each day and getting regular health checks to ensure optimal health.
Repeat this confession:
“I ……… (insert your name), promise to go for a regular health check-up, for my sake and love for my family.”
