Special Moments Are Priceless, So Is Your Health

No matter your age, annual physical exams and preventative screenings are important to identify and treat health issues early.  During June, in honor of Father’s Day, we invite you to raise your awareness of Men’s Health Month.  If you haven’t seen your healthcare provider in the last year, give yourself the gift of better health!

Heart disease is the leading cause of death of men in the US, equating to 1 out of every 4 deaths.  Having high blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose can increase your risk of a cardiovascular event such as a heart attack or stroke.  About half of the US population is dealing with at least one of these risk factors.  When you have annual exams, providers are able to check your blood pressure, run lab tests and discuss healthy habits to keep your cardiac risks in check.

Unfortunately, men have higher rates of getting and dying from cancer than women according to the CDC.  Most cancers develop slowly over time, so making sure you visit your healthcare provider at least annually and making healthy choices can help lower some of your risk factors.  In addition to checking your general health, your provider can confirm that you are receiving your age-appropriate screenings.

While most recognize the link between smoking and cancer, you may be surprised at other factors that may lead to cancer. 

  • Skin Cancer
    Living in an agricultural prominent area in addition to great outdoor activities offered locally, remembering to use sunscreen is critical to lowering your risk of skin cancer, the most common cancer in the US. 
  • Colorectal Cancer
    Starting at age 45, you should begin screening for colorectal cancer.  Several screening tests are available including those that can be ordered by your provider and completed at home.  Depending on your and your family’s history, you may need a screening colonoscopy.  Colonoscopies can be performed in Floyd Valley Surgery by one of our three general surgeons.  Your provider will discuss which test is appropriate for you.
  • Lung Cancer
    Depending your history of smoking or exposure to second hand smoke, your provider may recommend an annual lung cancer screening beginning at age 50.  A low-dose CT scan takes only a few minutes and is pain-free.
  • Prostate Cancer
    Talking to your provider about family history or issues that you encounter with prostate health, they may recommend you begin screening with a blood test called a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test.  Most recommendations encourage men between ages 55 and 69 to be screened with the PSA test.

In addition to adopting a healthy diet, refraining from alcohol and smoking, getting more exercise and reducing stress, make sure you schedule an appointment with your primary healthcare provider.  They are there to discuss any questions or concerns you make have about your health or plan to get healthier.  Don’t have a primary care provider? We invite you to visit one at Floyd Valley Clinics!  The best way to keep on top of your health is to have routine visits with your provider for continuity of care.