For many men, their most prized possession is their automobile. A lot of consideration is given to the make, model, and reliability of the vehicle. You take the car to the garage for routine maintenance checks. Every once in a while, the car may need emergency service.
The same prevention concepts that keep your automobile in top condition can be applied to your personal health. According to a survey commissioned by The Commonwealth Fund, men were less likely than women to get routine checkups or preventative care and often ignore symptoms and delay seeking medical help. One in four men reported that they would wait as long as possible before seeing a doctor if they were in pain or feeling sick.
Remember that just last year, a popular television actor died from a heart attack at a fairly young age. Reports from his peers suggested that he had symptoms that he just shrugged off. Failure to take care of your body may be fatal. Listen to what your body tells your and take care of the symptoms just like you listen to your car and work to prevent further problems.
Over half of all male deaths in Kentucky each year are caused by either heart disease or cancer. Men need to take the driver's seat in addressing these health issues. The first step is to practice healthy behaviors and lifestyles that can help prevent heart disease and some types of cancer. This includes not smoking; being physically active; eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; eating less saturated fat and cholesterol; limiting alcohol consumption; using sunscreen; and controlling your weight.
Routine maintenance is necessary to prevent illness or catch it in its earliest stages. In addition to annual vision, dental and hearing checkups, men should make sure their healthcare provider is monitoring their blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels.
During the annual health exam, men need to ask about specific screenings such as colorectal, prostate, testicular, and skin cancer exams. Knowing your family's health history will help the doctor decide at what age these exams need to be done. Don't be afraid to receive medical tests. The earlier a problem is detected, the greater your chance for recovery.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, over 1,200 Kentucky men died from unintentional injuries in the year 2000. This is the third-leading cause of death for Kentucky men. The biggest culprit in these deaths was motor vehicle accidents. To reduce your chances for a fatal car crash this year, use your seat belt, keep your speed down, and don't drive while sleepy or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
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