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Speaking generally, men need to know more about
preventive health and practice the health habits that are
known to prevent chronic illnesses. Adequate or affordable
health insurance coverage has been a barrier. In my
experience as a health care provider, even men who have
insurance just don’t like to go to doctors. It’s just not a
macho thing to do; it seems to be an attack on their
manhood.
Another contributor to
the statistics is that men tend to have more dangerous
occupations and participate in more dangerous sports and
leisure activities. There is more risk-taking.
The top five causes of death as noted in 2013
statistics were:
#1 – Cardiovascular (heart) disease. There are many
preventable contributors to this. Uncontrolled high blood
pressure is a major factor. A Body Mass Index over 35
(obesity), and BMI over 40 (morbid obesity) is higher in
men. Obesity is a major risk factor for diabetes, rates of
which are on the rise for men and women; especially for ages
65 and older. These Big 3: diabetes, obesity, and
hypertension are all strongly implicated in heart disease
and early death from complications.
#2 – Stroke. The same preventable contributors to
heart disease also are risk factors for stroke.
Additionally, cigarette smoking increases this risk.
Cigarette smoking is highest in males, ages 18-44.
#3 – Cancers: lung, colon/rectal, and prostate. Not
all lung cancers are caused by cigarette smoking; but
smoking, second-hand smoke, and a chemically hazardous work
environment increase risk. Colorectal cancers are related
to a high-fat and increased red meats in the diet. Diets low
in fiber increase risk of these cancers. The specific cause
of prostate cancer is not clear. There is a hereditary
component to some cases. In other cases, the DNA of the
cell changes likely in response to the environment and
inflammation which can be diet-related. I discussed the
dangers of inflammation in a previous article. Screening
for these cancers is so very important. Early detection
increases treatment options and long term survival.
#4 -Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD/Emphysema).
This is a chronic and progressive lung disease. Again, many
years of smoking and exposure to lung irritants contribute
to this condition.
#5 – Influenza and Pneumonia. In past years, these
illnesses were never this high up on the list. I don’t know
if the strains of the flu cause more severe illness, or
people don’t take heed to get the vaccine, or whether
getting the flu or pneumonia weakens your ability to fight
off the virus or bacteria if you already have diabetes,
stroke heart, or lung disease.
So, how do you make
sure you’re setting a healthy example? Remember, people are
watching and they care!
*If you haven’t done so this year, make an appointment for
your annual physical today, even if you don’t feel sick.
And, I mean a real physical exam – head to toe. If
your provider only listens to your heart and lungs, and
says, “see you next year”; that doesn’t count. Your physical
exam should include an actual exam of your prostate through
your rectum beginning at age 45. Your annual blood work
should include a PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) at this age
also. A test for hidden blood in your stool should be done
every year. A baseline colonoscopy should be done beginning
at age 50, then every 7-10 years if it is normal. A baseline
colonoscopy should be done at age 35 if there is a parent
diagnosed with colorectal cancer.
*Know your numbers – blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood
sugar.
*Get screened for HIV, then every year if you are sexually
active.
*Get flu and pneumonia vaccines, especially if you have a
chronic illness.
*Make sure you know your family’s health history. Many
illnesses have a genetic component.
*Make sure your loved ones get their annual exams and
screenings.
*Get educated, and decide to have better lifestyle habits.
* Listen to your body, and don’t stall about getting
evaluated.
*Have an educational event or health fair at your job,
church or organization.
We need you men to be strong and healthy; we care!
Dianne Pettis, CRNP
Family Nurse Practitioner
724-375-7519
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