Men’s Health Month: Power Your Life with Better Health

June is Men’s Health Month so let’s take a closer look at the common health issues facing men so that you can take charge of your health.  

Heart disease 

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men in the United States. Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing heart disease, including lower testosterone levels that often decline with age. Other contributing factors include diabetes, obesity, substance use, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. 

Adopt heart-healthy habits to reduce the risk of developing heart disease. This includes eating a balanced diet, staying physically active, managing pre-existing health conditions and regularly visiting your primary care provider. 

Prostate health

Monitoring prostate health is important because as men age, the risk of prostate conditions and cancer increases. Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men with approximately 6 in 10 cases being diagnosed at age 65 and older. 

Routine prostate examinations are recommended starting at age 50 unless you have a family history of prostate cancer then examinations are recommended earlier. Talk to your doctor about scheduling an exam. 

Mental health 

Approximately one in 10 men experience depression or anxiety, but less than half will receive treatment. Stigmas related to mental health often prevent men from getting the help they need. By encouraging open discussions about mental health, we can help break down barriers and eliminate the associated stigmas. 

Prioritize your mental well-being by staying active, spending time with loved ones and seeking treatment if necessary. 

This month and every month, we encourage you to take charge of your physical and mental health. If you need care, visit the OSU Medicine website to view our list of providers and clinics.