According to Harvard Medical School, the average man pays less attention to his health than the average woman. While this is a problem by itself, men are also more likely to drink alcohol, use tobacco, make risky choices, and NOT see a doctor. 

Unsurprisingly, they face health challenges that women do not, which can lead to problems down the road. 

June is Men's Health Month, a perfect opportunity to spotlight the unique health challenges men face and to emphasize the importance of preventive checkups. Whether you are a man who is reading this, or have male loved ones you wish would be more proactive, the best time to build healthy habits is now. 

Remember, prevention is always easier than trying to find a cure. Here are some common health problems that men face, and how to avoid them in the first place.

Common Men’s Health Problems

• Heart Disease — This is the leading cause of death among men in the United States, with approximately one in every four male deaths attributed to heart disease. Furthermore, it is the leading cause of death among men regardless of ethnicity. The risk of heart disease can be decreased by making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a heart-healthy diet. It is also important to regularly monitor blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and to see a doctor if any abnormalities are detected.
• Prostate Cancer — It is the second most common cancer among men, with an estimated one in every eight men being diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. Early detection is key to successfully treating prostate cancer, so it is important for men over the age of 50 to get regular prostate exams. Men with a family history of prostate cancer or Black men should start getting screened at age 45. It can be slow to develop, and current treatment protocols are very effective. That is why screening is so important.
• Erectile Dysfunction — Also known as ED, it is a common problem among men, particularly as they age. It can be caused by numerous factors, including stress, anxiety, side effects from medication, and underlying health conditions such as heart disease or diabetes. To prevent ED, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and seek treatment for any underlying health conditions. Meet with your family physician if you have concerns regarding your ability to have erections. You should also see your doctor if you have:
  • Premature or delayed ejaculation
  • Heart disease, diabetes, or other conditions that might be related to erectile dysfunction
• Testicular Cancer — While relatively rare, it is the most common cancer among men aged 15-35. Diagnosis affects one out of every 250 men and boys. The risk of death from testicular cancer can be decreased by performing regular self-exams and seeking medical attention if any abnormalities are detected. Treatment is usually very successful, particularly if the cancer is caught early.
• Depression — Men who are depressed are four times as likely to take their lives as women who are depressed. Despite that, men are often reluctant to seek help. To prevent depression, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, manage stress, and seek help if you are struggling. The classic signs of depression are despondency, loss of interest in work and hobbies, changes in weight and sleep, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. Men can also have symptoms including anger, substance abuse, and agitation.

Healthy Habits Made Easy

Encourage the men in your life to take charge of their well-being. Living longer and healthier requires effort — especially getting routine medical checkups, quitting smoking, cutting back on alcohol, getting or staying active, and seeking mental health help if it is needed.

AltaMed provides complete health care services for every family member at every stage of life. Call (888) 499-9303 or click here for more information.