Take charge of your health this Men’s Health Awareness Month
November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, when men across the world are encouraged to focus on their health and wellbeing, and to learn more about the issues which could affect them. Some of the major health issues that men face include:
- Prostate cancer – Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men, and early detection is vital for successful treatment. Regular screenings are recommended for men over 50, although it can be beneficial to start screenings earlier if certain risk factors are present.
- Heart disease – Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men, but many risk factors – such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels – can be managed with diet, exercise, and medication. Regular checks for heart health can detect potential dangers early, allowing for the right plan to be put in place.
- Mental health – Depression, anxiety, and stress are prevalent in both men and women – however men are far less likely to speak about these issues, and even less likely to seek treatment. Opening up about mental health struggles can be a challenge, but it is crucial to ensure that the right support can be provided when needed.
At large, men are more likely to avoid going to the doctor for health issues that concern them which can result in many health issues evolving from minor and treatable illnesses to more severe, or even life-threatening problems. Yet, with the right knowledge of what to look out for, and a proactive approach to managing health, men can start to take ownership of their health and wellbeing.
Here are some simple steps that you can follow to lead a healthier lifestyle and take charge of your health:
- Stay proactive with health screenings: Annual check-ups are a key part of managing your health, but men over 50 should prioritise prostate cancer screenings. Treatments can be far more successful when prostate cancer is detected early.
- Maintain a regular exercise routine: Hitting around 2 ½ hours of cardiovascular exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or any activity that raises your heart rate lowers the risk of heart disease, and can help to maintain a healthy weight.
- Get the right nutrition: The risk of heart disease can be reduced by eating a healthier diet. Limiting ultra-processed foods, saturated fats, cholesterol, and trans fats, whilst increasing amounts of fruit, vegetables, and lean proteins such as fish can help to support overall heart health and limit weight gain.
- Improve your sleep quality: Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial to both physical and mental health – adults need around 7-9 hours of sleep per night to function optimally. Not getting enough sleep, or poor sleeping habits have been linked to issues such as depression, heart disease, and weight gain.
- Seek support for mental health: Emotional and mental wellbeing are crucial to overall health. Regularly check in on your mental health, reach out to your friends and family, and seek professional help if you are struggling.
Men’s Health Awareness Month is a timely reminder to take charge of your health and wellbeing – but remember that health is a lifelong journey. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and book that appointment you’ve been putting off. Talk to your friends and family about what’s on your mind, and make choices that put your health and wellbeing first. Small changes you make today may seem insignificant – but can lead to significant health improvements in the years to come.