June is Men’s Health Month. This observance aims to raise awareness about preventable health problems that affect men and boys.
Statistics show men are less likely than women to seek medical attention when something affects their health. Men are also less likely to have preventative screenings and checkups with their healthcare providers. This is a problem as early detection of a medical condition is the best way to effectively treat and manage it.
Additionally, avoiding or delaying checkups or screenings could result in a treatable condition becoming severe and/or fatal.
The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) publishes a list of recommended, age-specific screening guidelines for men to help them manage their health:
Screenings guidelines recommended for men ages 18-39 include:
- Physical examinations
- Blood pressure screenings
- Cholesterol screenings
- Colon cancer screenings
- Dental examinations
- Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes screenings
- Eye examinations
- Immunizations
- Skin examinations
- Infectious disease screenings
Screenings guidelines recommended for men ages 40-64 include:
- Physical examinations
- Blood pressure screenings
- Cholesterol screenings
- Colorectal cancer screenings
- Prostate cancer screenings
- Osteoporosis screening
- Lung cancer screening
- Infectious disease screening
- Immunizations
- Eye examinations
- Dental examinations
- Skin examinations
It is important to visit your healthcare providers regularly, even if you are feeling healthy. These visits can help:
- Screen for any medical issues
- Encourage a healthy lifestyle
- Assess your risk for any future medical problems
- Update vaccinations and other preventative care services
- Help you get to know your healthcare provider in case of an illness
If you are experiencing any medical problems or would like to receive health screenings, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center, by calling (718) 206-7001.
FollowAll content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.