by Semper Fit, MCB Quantico
No matter how much you know about men’s health, there’s always room to know more about ways to a better your lifestyle, top men’s health concerns, and the importance of getting medical care and regular screening tests. After all, men not only have unique health concerns, but they also suffer more from certain diseases, and worldwide, women outlive men. Some findings include:
- On an average most men tend not to be as conscientious about their health as women and may have less healthy lifestyles.
- Most men do not seek medical help as often or as soon as women.
- Men tend to engage in fearless, risky, and sometimes-dangerous behaviors more than women.
Men also largely define themselves by their work which adds to stress and may not be as connected with their emotional side. This can add to problems in relationships, as well as in jobs and careers. The good news is that many of the major health risks men face can be prevented and treated if they are diagnosed early.
Maintain a healthy weight
Obesity is at an all time high in the U.S., and the epidemic is getting worse. Those who are overweight or obese have increased risks for diseases and conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Eat healthier, get regular exercise, and see your health care provider and or the Semper Fit Dietitian about any health concerns to make sure you are on the right track.
Eat healthy
What you eat and drink and what you don’t eat and drink can definitely make a difference to your health. Eating many fruits and vegetables a day, lean meats and fish and whole grains can improve your health and may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Reduce stress level
Reducing your stress level is truly one health measure that we can control. By learning to be more effective and less effected by someone or something by choosing a more rational, sane and positive approach we in turn reduce our own stress response. Changing the way we look at things makes the things we look at change. Choosing peace rather than strife preserves our health and maintains our blood pressure.
Stress can produce a myriad of health issues from a mild headache to a major heart attack. Which would you like to have to deal with?
Get moving
More than 50 percent of American men do not get enough physical activity to provide health benefits. Thirty minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week is recommended. It doesn’t take a lot of time or money, but it absolutely does take a real commitment. Develop a routine, or do something different every day. Find ways to enjoy staying in shape just by walking the dog, cutting the grass, or jogging in the park.
Quit tobacco use
Smoking triples the risk of dying from heart disease among middle-aged men; Nicotine is a powerfully addicting substance. However there are some excellent products to help you quit. Consult your doctor for help and attend Semper Fit Health Promotion Tobacco Cessation class usually held on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. Go to www.quantico.usmc-mccs.org for exact dates and times. Smokeless tobacco users are also encouraged to attend. The benefits of being tobacco free far out ways the excuses for continuing.
Get routine screenings
Based on your age, health history, lifestyle and other issues, you and your provider determine how often you need to be screened for certain conditions. These include checks for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted diseases, and cancers of the skin, prostate, testicles, and colon.
Vaccinations are not just for kids
Vaccinations are for adults too. Vaccinations may be recommended for certain jobs, certain lifestyles or if you travel to certain places. They may also be given as seasonal preventative measures against Flu and pneumonia.
Know your family history
Your parents and ancestors help determine some of who you are. Knowing your family health history can help define your own health and risk for certain diseases and you may take steps to lower those risks.
Be good to yourself
Make healthy living a part of your life. Take steps to balance work, home and play. Health is not merely the absence of disease; it’s a lifestyle.