You’ve read countless men health tips in the last several years, but do you know what they really mean? If so, you’re on the right track. Here are some tips to improve your overall well-being. Regular checkups, getting screened, and limiting alcohol are a few ways to fine-tune your overall health. You should also talk with your doctor about any specific health concerns. Here are some examples of what men’s health tips mean for you:
Regular checkups
The benefits of regular men’s health checkups are numerous. These examinations can help prevent chronic diseases, such as cancer and heart disease, and they can also serve as an accountability experience. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), men should undergo screenings at least every five years. These exams are quick, painless, and usually covered by most health insurance plans. What’s more, most of the exams last only thirty to forty-five minutes.
While you’re at the doctor, you’ll want to develop a relationship with the doctor. Developing a strong relationship with your doctor will increase your chances of seeking medical care when you need it. Moreover, you’ll be more likely to seek out the medical care you need, and you’ll be less likely to undergo unnecessary tests. A doctor’s office is also more likely to recognize early warning signs and provide early treatment for a disease.
Limiting alcohol
For decades, men have been advised to limit their alcohol consumption to two drinks a day. Now, a new panel of health experts is proposing a lower limit of one drink per day for men. The current limit for women remains at one drink per day. The panel advises the federal government on U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which are released every five years. When the new guidelines are released, they are expected to lower the recommended limit even more.
According to the latest study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol can cause considerable damage to a man’s health. Drinking excessively accounts for 10 percent of all years lost to death or disability worldwide. The average male in the world drinks 3.3 standard drinks per day, which is far too much. If alcohol consumption was reduced by just a quarter of a standard drink per day, 1.8 million more lives would be saved each year.
Getting screened
Although most men’s health screening tests are done in a doctor’s office, a few tests can also be done at home. Some tests measure blood sugar levels, while others detect conditions like colon cancer, diabetes, and high blood pressure. If you feel you don’t need any screenings, you should make sure to schedule a checkup every year to avoid future problems. Listed below are some tips to help you get your regular checkups:
Getting screened for men’s health is extremely important. Even if you don’t have symptoms, screenings can detect issues before they become too late. They can also identify lifestyle changes and indicate when further testing is needed. Depending on your age and overall health, your doctor may recommend different screenings at different times. But if you’re at a high risk for developing certain conditions, you should get them performed as soon as possible.