During the month of June, men are reminded of the importance of maintaining good health. This year it is estimated that 637,500 American men and boys will be diagnosed with cancer. More than half will beat the disease thanks to early detection and diagnosis along with improved treatments. The three male-only cancers — prostate, testicular and penile — have very high survival rates. This is especially true with early detection, which is possible with regular check-ups and vigilant attention to changes in one's own body. Know your body! Being sensitive to changes in appetite, bladder and bowel habits, levels of fatigue, sores that don't heal, unusual skin changes or anything not normal for you can lead to prompt diagnosis of many health concerns, not just cancer.
Men should have regular health check-ups. The following guidelines are simply that, a guide. Personal risk factors such as age, current health status and family history will influence recommended time frames for specific exams.
In addition, daily exercise and proper diet to maintain BMI (body mass index) between 19 and 24 can help with overall fitness and well being. You can calculate your BMI by:
Or, you can find BMI calculators online by typing "Body Mass Index Calculator" into a search engine such as Google.
Observe Men's Health Month by calling your health care provider to see if it's time for your check-up!