June: Men’s Health Month

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), many of the greatest threats to men’s health are preventable: These threats include heart disease,

skin cancer, diabetes and prostate cancer. It’s important to explore ways to improve and maintain your health now because practicing a healthy lifestyle today increases the likelihood that you will feel well and remain mobile as you age.

Heart Disease: The Leading Cause of Death for Men in the U.S.

The CDC states that heart disease is responsible for one in four male deaths in the U.S. And when it comes to sudden cardiac events up to 89 percent of them occur in men. Here are a few ways to improve your cardiovascular health:

Diet: Nearly 20 years after its initial report, the American Heart Association reaffirms the cardiovascular benefits associated with eating two, 3.5-ounce servings of non-fried portions of fish that are high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids each week. These fish include salmon, albacore tuna, mackerel and herring. Lower your LDL cholesterol and stay feeling fuller longer by eating high-fiber foods such as barley, oatmeal, brown rice, beans and oat bran.

Exercise: Any type of physical activity can benefit your health. Take the opportunity to participate in activities that you enjoy (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, basketball, tennis, bike riding, etc.).

Lifestyle Choices: If you smoke, ask your physician to help you quit. Do everything you can to avoid exposure to inhalants like secondhand smoke, chemicals and air pollution. Manage your stress levels through meditation, reading or participating in a relaxing activity that you enjoy.

Skin Cancer

Melanoma affects one in 28 white men. The good news is that skin cancer is easily prevented. Just remember to schedule regular checkups with your dermatologist and use sun protection products that are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.

Diabetes

Untreated diabetes can cause urological issues, neuropathy, erectile dysfunction, eye damage, dehydration, kidney damage and hearing problems. Once a man gains weight, he is at a higher risk for developing diabetes than a woman would be. In addition, a man usually stores fat in different areas than a woman, which increases his risk of becoming diabetic. The biggest factor in diabetes prevention is maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise. If you are considered pre-diabetic, you may be able to delay or prevent the onset of diabetes by making healthy lifestyle choices. Should you be diagnosed with diabetes, regularly checking your blood sugar levels, eating healthy, diabetic-friendly meals and exercising regularly is essential.

Prostate Cancer

Although the risk of prostate cancer increases with age, younger men have been known to develop it as well. When found in its early stages, this cancer is treatable; however, early-on, prostate cancer is usually asymptomatic (has no symptoms). The age when your prostate screenings will begin is based on your family history of the disease. Visiting your physician for your recommended annual or biannual prostate screenings is the best way to detect prostate cancer early.

Taking good care of yourself now can make an enormous difference in your future self.

*Health conditions vary by person. Speak with your doctor about their recommendations.