It doesn’t take statistics to tell you that men are more likely to avoid doctors than women. Women are indeed 100 per cent more likely to see a doctor for examinations, screenings, and preventative health consults, even though they are much less likely to die from one of the top 10 causes of death. But why do men avoid their doctors and neglect their health? If you are the one, you should probably read on to learn why men’s health and wellness are essential. Here’s why –
1. To Break Bad Habits
Smoking is one of the worst things you can do to your health. Secondhand smoke can also be very harmful. Every year, nearly 7,300 nonsmokers die of lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Additionally, smoking and secondhand smoke exposure can lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, and heart disease. Smoking and secondhand smoke exposure can also increase your risk for many types of cancer.
Furthermore, excessive alcohol consumption and frequent recreational or habitual drug use are harmful to men’s wellness. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation. Men should limit their alcohol consumption to two drinks a day, which is equivalent to 24 ounces of beer, 10 ounces of wine, or 3 ounces of spirits.
It’s important to stop using recreational drugs if you do. They’re associated with many men’s health-related problems. Cocaine use, for example, can lead to strokes and heart attacks. Almost all drugs can cause serious infections and skin breakdown when injected.
To increase muscle mass, some men also take anabolic steroids. However, this can have serious health consequences. Among the outcomes may be sterility, heart disease, skin disease, and behavioural problems.
You can develop a plan to quit smoking, drinking too much, or using illicit drugs with the help of your doctor. Your doctor might recommend medications, therapy, or other strategies to help you quit.
2. For Well Round Balanced Diet
A balanced diet provides your body with the nutrients it needs to function effectively. The body is more prone to diseases, infections, fatigue, and low performance without balanced nutrition. A well-round balanced diet is important for men’s care.
Those without a healthy diet are also more likely to develop obesity and diseases such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest reports that 4 of the top 10 leading causes of death in the United States are directly related to diet. These are:
- heart disease
- cancer
- stroke
- type 2 diabetes
3. Protection from Skin Cancer
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer. It’s one of the deadliest cancers. Men over the age of 50 are more at risk of developing it, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).
Take steps to protect yourself from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun to reduce your risk of developing melanoma. Whenever you are outside:
- spend time in the shade
- cover your body with protective clothing
- cover exposed skin in sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher
- reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating or swimming
Furthermore, tanning beds are harmful sources of UV radiation and should be avoided.
Make sure you do a monthly skin check for new or unusual moles, changes to existing moles, or any changes to your skin colour or texture. Use a mirror to check places you can’t usually see. Visit a dermatologist about once a year for a full-body skin check. Alternatively, there are a lot of men’s products available in the market which can do the work but make sure you select the ones which work best for your skin type.
4. Prostate and Prostate Cancer
The prostate is an important part of men’s sexual health. According to the American Cancer Society, prostate cancer is the second most common cancer diagnosis among American men. According to the report, nearly 192,000 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2020. If you have difficulty urinating, experience pain when you urinate or notice blood in your urine, it may signify that you have prostate issues. Make an appointment with your doctor. They may suggest getting blood tests or undergoing a prostate exam to check for prostate cancer or other conditions.
You can keep your prostate healthy by eating a healthy diet and keeping active. Though little research has been done on the impact exercise has on prostate health, experts agree that physical activity is beneficial for all aspects of health.
5. Fitness For Men
Fitness, diet, and exercise are all essential for men’s health and even for men’s sexual health. Regular, consistent physical activity, combined with a healthy diet, can improve almost every aspect of your life.
We all know how important exercise is for our health. And the type of exercise we do matters, too. If you are new to fitness, begin slowly so your body can get used to the new level of exercise. Even a daily walk can make a positive difference in men’s wellness and weight loss efforts.
If your exercise routine consists solely of cardio or aerobic exercises such as swimming, running, or cycling, it’s essential to add strength training as well. That doesn’t mean you have to deadlift 200 pounds (but if you can, that’s great!). You can build muscle, burn fat, and protect your joints by doing strength or weight training. Combined with cardio exercises like walking and biking, weight lifting brings a holistic approach to your health. You can also look for different men’s products which can help you achieve your desired fitness goals.
According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, men should engage in muscle-strengthening activities two or more days a week, combined with 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise.
6. Mental Health and Wellness
Many men still believe they cannot express their difficulties or show any emotional vulnerability despite the increased focus on emotional wellness. Anxiety and depression are more than just having a bad day. A ripple effect affects your appetite, productivity, and sleep patterns. Additionally, it can increase your risk of heart disease.
If you are concerned that someone you care about may be struggling, or if you think you need help, look for these signs that indicate it’s time to reach out:
- difference in work performance
- weight changes
- change in mood
- physical symptoms, such as headaches and stomach issues
- sadness, hopelessness, or anhedonia (a loss of pleasure and pulling away from things that used to provide enjoyment)
You can help a loved one who exhibits any of these symptoms by reminding them that seeking help can be a sign of strength rather than weakness and that we have plenty of resources in 2022.
Consult your primary care provider or a substance use disorder professional (in cases when self-medicating with alcohol or other drugs)
Summing up
This topic goes beyond feeling good or improving a person’s life. It is about the impact men have on others.
Taking care of oneself can be a radical act of service to others, and a mainstream movement of healthy men could literally change the world for the better.
You’ve been waiting for this permission, men. Look after yourselves because, yes, men’s care is important!
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