Men’s Health Matters: Christus Spohn Hospital Encourages Regular Check-Ups and a Healthier Lifestyle

As June rolls around, it’s time to focus on Men’s Health Month. CHRISTUS Health is encouraging men to take charge of their health by scheduling regular checkups and screenings.

Life gets busy, and it’s easy to overlook personal health. However, putting health first is essential for a longer life. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 13.2% of men aged 18 and older label their health as fair or poor. Major health issues for men include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, cancer, and high blood pressure.

“Many men think they’re healthy as long as they feel fine,” says Dr. Christopher Petrikas, a family medicine physician at CHRISTUS Health. “But regular screenings can catch issues early. Men should aim for a health checkup at least once a year.”

Screenings are also a chance for men to talk about their family health history and any ongoing concerns. Heart disease tops the list as the leading cause of death among men. Early detection can make a huge difference.

“Several factors can lead to heart disease,” Dr. Petrikas notes. “These include smoking, diabetes, high cholesterol, a family history of heart issues, and high blood pressure.”

Starting screenings at 18 is crucial. Men should particularly begin colorectal cancer screenings at 45. “There are different ways to screen for colorectal cancer. The important thing is to get screened. Early detection improves survival rates significantly,” Dr. Petrikas adds.

Interestingly, a recent survey found that only 50% of men over 40 have had a preventive health check in the past year. This indicates a gap in awareness and action regarding men’s health.

Social media discussions around Men’s Health Month also reveal that many men are unaware of the risks they face. Online platforms are buzzing with tips on how to maintain health and share experiences. These conversations can motivate others to seek help and start their health journey.

If you’re looking for a primary care physician, you can find one near you on the Christus Spohn website.

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