Article Library Video Library Definitions

June is Men's Health Month

Author

Healthcare Network Southwest Florida

For more information about the author, click to view their website: Healthcare Network

Posted on

May 25, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Southwest

Email US

Click to Email Us

Men’s Health Month in June was established to encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men as well as awareness of preventable health problems for men and boys. Research shows that men are less likely to see the doctor, especially if they do not have symptoms. As a result, men are more likely to be diagnosed with a disease or illness in its later stages. This delay often makes treatment more complicated.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) found that men are three times more likely than women to go without a doctor visit for five or more years. According to a survey conducted by the Commonwealth Fund, three times as many men as women had not seen a doctor in the previous year. In addition, more than half of all men had not undergone a physical exam or cholesterol test in the previous year. Up to 60% of men are unlikely to seek medical care, even when they believe they are seriously ill.

According to a Harris Poll survey for the American Academy of Family Physicians:

• 90% of men do not seek care or advice right away but wait before seeking treatment.

• 38% of men only seek healthcare when they are incredibly sick or when symptoms do not go away on their own.

• 55% of men had not seen a doctor for a physical exam within the last 12 months.

• Of this group, 40% had one or more chronic health conditions.

• 40% of men follow their doctor’s advice 100% of the time.

• 58% follow their doctor’s advice 50 to 75% of the time.

Cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes and hypertension are higher in men than women. Notably, 80% of all sudden-death cases due to unrecognized heart disease happen to men.The message for Men’s Health Month is that men can empower themselves for better health with routine doctor’s visits and screenings.

Here is why being proactive about health matters:

• Heart disease, cancer, depression, and a higher tendency to participate in risky behavior are among the most significant risks to men’s health.

• Men are more likely to be hospitalized or die from preventable conditions because they do not visit their doctor as much.

• Men’s sexual health is most likely affected by dangerous substances and the natural aging process.

• Routine checkups and screenings are linked to better longevity and health in men.

• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to prevent or manage many common health problems in men.

It is especially important for senior men to seek preventative health services, because as bodies age, hormones change, impacting fat distribution and muscle mass. Nutrients are processed differently, and many men are at increased risk of developing heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes as they age.

Here are some of the screening tests recommended by Johns Hopkins for men over the age of 65:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm

• Blood pressure

• Colorectal Cancer

• Depression

• Diabetes mellitus, type 2

• Lipid disorders

• STD

In addition, up to 50% of Americans who live to age 65 will have at least one skin cancer, and Caucasian men are particularly at risk. It is never too late to take steps to prevent further damage from the sun as well as be screened regularly for signs of skin cancer.

While it may seem like a lot to manage, regular check-ups and a relationship with your primary care physician (PCP) are some of the best ways to improve the chances for early detection of chronic illnesses and better health outcomes.

PCPs manage the full scope of health factors and work with patients to create action plans for better health, while monitoring and keeping track of changes to health and ensuring continuity of care. Because they know your personal health history, they are better able to manage your overall health, even with multiple conditions.

While one in three seniors sees at least five doctors a year, the PCP can act as the go-between for different specialists, helping to manage appointments, referrals and prescriptions.

Men’s Health Month (anytime, really!) is a great time to establish a relationship with a PCP who can get to know you and help you meet your health care goals. To make an appointment with a Healthcare Network provider capable of coordinating healthcare needs that come with aging, call 239-758-0252 or visit healthcareswfl.org.

About the Author

Dr. Corin DeChirico is vice president of medical staff and chief medical officer for Healthcare Network. For information on Healthcare Network, call 239.658.3000.

Other Articles You May Like

Holiday Visits: Prepare the Home, Protect Your Peace

A warm welcome doesn't require a perfect house. Whether family is coming for an afternoon or staying a few nights, a little planning now can make holiday gatherings more comfortable for everyone.1. Have the conversation earlyConfirm dates, overnight arrangements, food preferences, and any mobility needs. Let guests know what works for you, including visit length and quiet time.2. Create a comfortable place to landFresh linens, a clear bedside surface, and an easy-to-reach lamp can make a guest space feel welcoming. No guest room? Agree on sleeping arrangements ahead of time.3. Make movement easierClear hallways and stairs, secure or remove loose rugs, and check lighting between sleeping areas and bathrooms. Keep frequently used items within comfortable reach.4. Put safety before tidinessStore medications securely, especially when children are visiting. Check smoke and carbon monoxide alarms according to the manufacturer's instructions, and keep exits clear.5. Share the hostingInvite family to bring a dish, help with cleanup, or organize an activity. Keep meals simple and make room for breaks. Being together matters more than doing everything yourself.6. Make space for connectionSet out a few family photos, plan a favorite game, or ask guests to share a memory. Often, the simplest traditions are the ones everyone remembers.

Night of Wonder at The Ringling

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.

A New Chapter Deserves a Thoughtful Beginning.Choosing a senior living community is an important life decision. But what happens between making that decision and feeling truly settled?At Silk Road Connection, we work directly for you and your family, providing personalized planning, professional coordination, and oversight of the many details involved in transitioning to senior living.Our goal is simple: Less stress for families. More time to enjoy what comes next.Founder-Directed Team DeliveredSchedule a complimentary consultation. [email protected] silkroadconnection.org

View Details

Healthcare Network

Dental Services

About Healthcare NetworkHealthcare Network provides high-quality, accessible healthcare for every stage of life with specialized services tailored to help seniors maintain their health, independence, and lifestyle.Our Senior Care teams address the unique and often complex needs of adults 65+ through coordinated, compassionate healthcare that supports overall wellbeing. Our collaborative approach integrates physical, cognitive, emotional, and social needs to promote the best possible outcomes.Senior Care Services* Include: Diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic conditions Medication management Coordinated care for multiple conditions Wellness check-ups Balance and memory screening Immunizations Behavioral health counseling Dental care Infusion treatments X-ray and lab Optometry On-site pharmacy Telehealth*Services vary by locationCaring for the Whole FamilyIn addition to Senior Care, Healthcare Network provides a wide range of services for the entire family, from pediatric care and womens health to walk-in and specialty services.Since 1977, our compassionate care model has been serving the community with a unique, collaborative approach. Your personal healthcare team works together to deliver seamless, comprehensive careregardless of your insurance, income, or job status.We are committed to addressing health disparities and making healthcare more accessible, creating a healthier community for us all. Locations Throughout Collier County: Healthcare Network at Veterans Park1845 Veterans Park Dr., Naples 34109 Healthcare Network Dental Care East1749 Heritage Trl. #801, Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Friendship Health2355 Stanford Ct., Naples 34112 Healthcare Network at Nichols Community Health Center12655 Collier Blvd., Naples 34116 Healthcare Network at Marion E. Fether Medical Center1454 Madison Ave. W., Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Family Care at iTech508 N. 9th St. #142, Immokalee 34142 Healthcare Network at Community Medical Care Center125 Boston Ave., Immokalee 34142

View Details