5 Ways to Prioritize Your Health During Men's Health Month -

June is Men’s Health Month, and its purpose is to raise awareness about the health issues common in males, their risks, and how to prevent them. Knowing where to start when it comes to your health can sometimes be overwhelming, but don’t worry. Here are 5 ways to prioritize your health during Men’s Health Month.

#1 Vaccinate, Vaccinate, Vaccinate!

Immunizations are safe, effective ways to help you stay healthy. They keep your body’s immune system in tip-top shape by arming it with the tools essential for fighting off multiple severe diseases. Your PCP can help you get up to date on your vaccines and let you know which ones you’ll need annually.

#2: Do Your Preventative Screenings.

Seeing your doctor when you’re not feeling well is only one part of maintaining your health. Annual prevention screenings are how your doctor monitors your health for any conditions you are at an increased risk for. It also gives them a chance to review your medical and family history regularly to identify any new risk factors to look out for. If something develops, it increases your chances of early intervention and better treatment response.

#3: Don’t Risk It.

Research continues to show a significant difference when it comes to the life expectancy and health of men compared to women. Some differences are often associated with certain behaviors. These include being less likely to seek treatment, which increases the risk of a disease being in the later stages when it’s finally discovered. Not seeking treatment is a considerable risk, but so is smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and drug use. So, always use a seatbelt, wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, and take advantage of the smoking and alcohol cessation programs and resources available.

#4: Eat Better, Move More.

Is it really a surprise that diet and exercise made the list? The reality is that making healthier meal choices and regular physical activity is a necessary part of your overall health. A healthier lifestyle can also help individuals manage their chronic conditions better, reduce their risk of certain diseases, and keep them active and independent for longer.

Start with small, meaningful changes like:

Reduce your intake of food and drinks that contain high amounts of processed sugar, trans fats, and sodium.
Eat carbs in moderation.
Exercise 30 minutes a day, 3 to 4 times a week.

# 5: Consider Joining a Research Study

Clinical Research Studies partner with volunteers to serve a vital role in advancing medicine. Study volunteers can learn more about their condition through the research staff with additional disease knowledge and training. Ultimately, this can help you better manage your condition so you can live a healthier life.