Men’s Health Awareness Month: Everything You Should Know

Jun 1, 2023 8:21:00 AM / by Voyage Healthcare Team posted in Men's Health

When it comes to routine doctor’s visits, there is a notion that men are notorious for avoiding doctors and dismissing unusual symptoms. This may explain why women live longer lives than men, along with the fact that men are more inclined than women to make dangerous decisions. 

Most serious health risks that males can have, can be avoided or detected early when a man maintains a lifestyle that focuses on regular exercise, a nutritious diet, lowering stress, and, drinking alcohol in moderation if at all. Regular physical examinations and screening tests can aid in the early detection of disease when it is most curable.

Adult men should routinely go to the doctor to maintain a baseline of their overall health. Some health problems become more common as you get older, but simple choices and changes can make an impact on your health today and in the future. 

Common Health Issues for Men

While some men don’t prioritize their health in their daily lives, there are some diseases and illnesses that need to be routinely checked for in order to have a man live their best life.

  1. Heart disease

More men die of heart disease than any other cause of death. By managing risk factors, men can lower their chances of heart disease. By eating a balanced diet, staying active, and not smoking, the chances of heart disease are significantly reduced. 

  1. Cancer

Common cancer diagnosed in men includes prostate, colon, lung, and skin cancers. A healthy lifestyle and regular screenings will help with the detection of the early signs of cancer. Taking simple steps like applying sunscreen, watching your diet, and talking to your provider about testing can all go a long way toward reducing your cancer risk.

  1. Diabetes

Compared to women, men have a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes at a lower weight. This is partly because male bodies carry belly fat, which immediately raises the risk. Exercising and managing your weight effectively mitigates the risk of diabetes. 

  1. Erectile dysfunction

In men over 75, erectile dysfunction can become an issue - this doesn’t mean that your sex life has to suffer. There are treatments, like medication that can help, as well as taking preventive measures such as quitting smoking or limiting alcohol. In any case, it’s good to get any symptoms checked out by your provider, as this condition could be a sign of a more severe issue, such as diabetes or high blood pressure.

  1. HPV and other STIs

As the most common sexually transmitted infection, human papillomavirus (HPV) generally goes away on its own. A small portion of men with HPV can develop certain health problems such as penile cancer or genital warts from the infection. HPV vaccines exist and may help to prevent infection, but they will likely be most beneficial before a man is 26. 

  1. Low testosterone

Testosterone starts to drop when a man is in his thirties, but if a man experiences undesired symptoms like low sex drive or trouble concentrating, they may need a blood test to check their hormone levels. Your provider will be able to diagnose underlying issues that could be causing lower than normal testosterone and discuss options. 

By taking precautions and getting routinely checked, men can lead healthier lives all around. Make an appointment with your provider for your routine check today. 



Voyage Healthcare Team

Written by Voyage Healthcare Team

Voyage Healthcare is an independently owned, multi-specialty healthcare clinic — guided by the doctors who care for families in the northwest metro area of Minneapolis/St. Paul.

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