June is Men’s Health Month, and at the Family Health Clinic we offer a variety of services that help men live a healthy and full life. We talked with one of our Nurse Practitioners, Debra Perkins, to gain her insight on what men should be doing throughout their life to help them be in great health.
If you could highlight a few things men should do when they are in their 20’s-40 to make sure they are taking care of their health, what would they be?
To start, men should monitor their diet and exercise at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. Exercise can include aerobics like walking, running, or biking, and weight training. In addition to a healthy diet, men should avoid the use of tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption.
As everyone should, men should be conscious of their sexual practices and take steps to prevent unwanted pregnancy and STIs by using safe sex methods and regularly testing for STIs. They should also stay up to date on all immunizations and vaccines.
Men in their 40’s to 60’s?
“Men should continue the suggestions listed above, and at the age of 50, their preventative health care should include a colonoscopy for colon cancer.”
Over the age of 60?
“Again, men should continue the items from above. If symptoms for prostate concerns appear, then that should be addressed. If you want to learn more about potential prostate concerns, talk to your primary care provider.”
Overall, what do you see in men that you think could be prevented?
“Obesity is a main health issue in men in the United States.”
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that, “People who have overweight or obesity, compared to those with healthy weight, are at increased risk for many serious diseases and health conditions, including the following:
- All-cause mortality (early death)
- High blood pressure (hypertension).
- High or low LDL cholesterol and high levels of triglycerides (dyslipidemia).
- Type 2 diabetes.
- Coronary heart disease.
- Stroke.
- Gallbladder disease.
- Osteoarthritis.
- Sleep apnea and breathing problems.
- Many types of cancers.
- Lower quality of life.
- Mental illness such as clinical depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders.
- Body pain and difficulty with physical functioning.“
Obesity can be prevented and the increased risk for the above diseases and health conditions can be avoided. Click here for some tips on how to maintain a healthy weight.
List some of the health services the Family Health Clinic provides for men:
“The Family Health Clinic provides primary care and mental health services, immunizations and vaccines, and we can/will refer to specialist if it is required.”
If you’d like to discuss anything from this article, such as achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, getting exercise and a healthy diet, or proper immunizations and screenings, make an appointment with one of our providers by calling (800) 321-5043.
Updated June 2024
