By Michael R. McDowell, MD, Family Medicine Physician at Millennium Physician Group
Men’s health involves more than treating symptoms when they appear – it is taking consistent, preventive steps to protect long-term wellbeing. While many health risks increase with age, a proactive approach with healthy lifestyle choices, routine screenings, and communication with a healthcare provider can help detect and manage potential issues early.
National health data indicate that men are less likely than women to seek regular medical care. Only about 60 percent of men receive an annual checkup, and many wait until symptoms become serious before seeing a doctor. As a result, men face higher rates of preventable disease and a 41 percent higher overall mortality rate than women under the age of 65.
The Leading Health Risks for Men
The most common threats to men’s health include heart disease, cancer, lung disease, stroke, diabetes, and injury. While not all of these can be prevented, many can be managed or reduced through healthy habits and regular medical care.
Heart Disease
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and being overweight. Some risks, like age and family history, cannot be changed, but many others can be improved through diet, exercise, and routine
monitoring.
Men should also be aware of the warning signs of a heart attack, which can include:
• Discomfort or pressure in the chest, arms, neck, jaw, or back
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea, light-headedness, or breaking out in a cold sweat
If these symptoms occur, it’s important to seek emergency medical care immediately.
Cancer
Men are often more likely than women to be diagnosed with and die from cancer. The most common forms include prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
• Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men. Men with a father, brother, or son who has had prostate cancer are two to three times more likely to develop it themselves. A blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a digital rectal exam (DRE) can help detect it early, when treatment is most effective.
• Colorectal cancer screening is recommended beginning at age 45 and can identify changes before they become cancerous.
• Lung cancer screening may be appropriate for men between 50 and 80 with a history of smoking.
• Testicular cancer is rare but most often affects younger men between the ages of 15 and 35.
Regular self-exams and talking to your doctor about any changes can help detect issues early.
Diabetes & Metabolic Health
Diabetes affects millions of men and can lead to heart disease, nerve damage, kidney problems, and vision loss if not managed properly. Maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and having blood sugar checked during annual visits are key to prevention and control.
Mental Health & Emotional Wellbeing
Mental health is a critical but often overlooked aspect of men’s health. About one in three men will experience depression during their lifetime, yet only a fraction seek professional help. Common symptoms of depression include:
• Often feeling sad or anxious
• Fatigue or difficulty sleeping
• Irritability
• Trouble concentrating
• Loss of interest
Depression can interfere with daily life and increase the risk of other medical conditions, including heart disease. If you notice these symptoms, reach out to a primary care provider or mental health professional.
Steps Toward Better Health
A proactive approach to health can help men prevent and manage many chronic conditions:
• Schedule Routine Checkups
A good rule of thumb – when you schedule your care for a tune-up, schedule one for yourself.
• Know Your Numbers
Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels are important health indicators.
• Stay Active
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly.
• Eat a Balanced Diet
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Avoid Risky Behaviors
Stop smoking and limit alcohol.
• Prioritize Mental Health
Open conversations about stress or anxiety can lead to effective support.
In addition to routine checkups, contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or sudden fatigue
• Noticeable changes in urination or bowel habits
• Persistent cough or unexplained weight loss
• Changes in mood or sleep
• Erectile difficulties, which can signal heart or
metabolic conditions
Men’s Health at Millennium Physician Group
At Millennium Physician Group, our primary care providers take a comprehensive approach to your health, focusing on prevention, early detection, and whole-person wellness. If it’s been more than a year since your last checkup – or if you have questions about your health – now is the time to take action and schedule your next appointment.
Attention Medicare-Eligible Patients:
Medicare’s Open Enrollment Period runs from October 15 through December 7. This is the time each year to review your coverage and make any changes to your Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plan. You can learn more at www.medicare.gov or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE.
323 Del Prado Blvd S, Suite 101
Cape Coral, FL 33990
239.567.9482 | MillenniumPhysician.com
This information is intended for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical guidance, diagnosis or treatment. No physician-patient relationship is created by this or its use.