Five Tips For Guys During Men’s Health Week

Keep the men in your life stronger, longer.

Men’s Health Week was created by Congress in 1994 to bring awareness to preventable diseases and conditions. June was selected to coincide with the celebration of Father’s Day. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that men in the U.S. die, on average, five years earlier than women. Male mortality rates are also higher for the nation’s top killers: cardiovascular disease, cancer and accidental injuries.

To combat these findings, experts suggest going on the offense. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is promoting Five Plays to help men stay in top form.

Protect the Heart– Practicing a heart-healthy diet is part of the long game in preventing heart disease. Fruits and vegetables should cover half the plate at mealtime.

Get Game Ready– Find time for fitness. Even 10 minutes a day boosts your overall well being.

Step Up– Stay on top of regular medical visits. Including health screenings. That means colonoscopy and testing for prostate cancer at the age your doctor recommends, based on personal health history. People who do this confront health issues before they become a health crisis.

Quitting Time– Man up and break those unhealthy habits. Smoking, excessive drinking and eating too much. This considerably lowers the risk of certain cancers, stroke. It may also lower the risk of erectile dysfunction.

Mind the Head Game– Mental health is connected to physical health. Recognize when it is time to slow down. If life becomes too problematic, remember it is okay to ask for an assist. Consult a professional if you feel overwhelmed or mentally off-balance.

If followed, these helpful tips can reduce the risk of many prevalent diseases and conditions, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. 

The final takeaway: Be in it to Win it.