From Memorial Hospital
Did you know that 72 percent of men would rather do household chores, like cleaning the bathroom or mowing the lawn, than go to the doctor?
June is Men’s Health Month, the perfect time to remind the men in your life of some simple ways to improve their wellbeing – including seeing a doctor.
FIRST, FIND A PRIMARY CARE PROVIDER
Everyone can benefit from a long-term relationship with a provider who knows his medical history and understands what is important to him. If seeing the doctor sounds like an inconvenience, opt for a virtual visit. When meeting with a primary care provider, share your complete medical history so nothing is overlooked.
GET SCREENED EARLY
Men can prevent common issues by meeting with a provider to get regular screenings. Here’s a list of health-maintenance tests for men ages 40-64 and above:
- Physical exam
- Blood pressure screening
- Cholesterol screening and heart disease prevention
- Diabetes screening
- Colon cancer screening
- Prostate cancer screening
- Testicular exam
- Lung cancer screening
- Osteoporosis screening
- Immunizations
- Dental exam
- Eye exam
GET MOVING
Encourage the men in your life to exercise, with a goal of 30 minutes of moderate activity at least five times per week. Heart disease is the leading cause of death among American men, and regular exercise is one of the best ways to prevent this condition.
EAT A BALANCED DIET
Avoid processed and packaged foods, opting instead for natural choices like fresh fruits and vegetables, whole-grain products, fiber-rich foods, lean meats and fish.
PROTECT YOUR SKIN
Our coastal summers mean more time outdoors, and one of the best preventive measures your guy can take is to protect his skin. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, men over the age of 50 are at a heightened risk of developing melanoma. Spend time in the shade, cover the body in protective clothing, use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply often.
Memorial offers both primary care services and virtual visits. Learn more by visiting wearememorial.com or by calling (228) 867-5000.