health matters
MEN'S HEALTH MONTH June is Men’s Health Month. This month-long celebration is a national initiative to raise awareness about health care for men and focus on encouraging boys, men, and their families to practice and implement healthy living decisions. In June, health-related programs are designed to encourage men of all ages to control their health by taking care of their bodies, eating right, exercising, and working to prevent disease.
The production of testosterone decreases as men approach the age of 40 and 50. This causes men to lose muscle mass and become more prone to weight gain. The risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes increases. Men are encouraged to increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, decrease eating fast and processed foods and implement a consistent exercise program to control obesity.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men in the United States, on average, die five years earlier than women and die at higher rates.
Many men are hesitant to seek mental health services. Men suffer from depression and anxiety. They struggle with feelings of inadequacy, failure, acute and chronic depression, and the stigma surrounding these issues. These problems are often undiagnosed. Health care providers, clergy, and men's fellowship groups on all levels must provide a safe space for men to share their feelings and destigmatize the discussion of mental health issues in men.
Promoting health-related programs for men is essential. Men are less likely to seek medical attention even in the presence of symptoms. A study by the Cleveland Clinic shows that 40 percent of men go to the doctor only when they have a severe health issue and delay going to the doctor for routine checkups. The three leading causes of death in men include heart disease, lung and prostate cancer, and unintentional injuries. Men are urged to implement steps to modify risk factors to reduce the development or progression of these and other disorders. Smoking is a significant risk factor in developing hypertension, heart diseases, lung disorders, and various cancers. The chemicals in tobacco alter cellular functions leading to irreversible damage to the tissues. Smoking causes the blood to thicken and the blood vessels to become stiff. Blood no longer flows freely, requiring the heart to pump harder and faster to circulate blood adequately. Cigarette smoking is known to damage bronchial and lung cells, causing lung cancer and chronic lung disease. It is associated with the development of throat, esophageal and pancreatic cancers.
Young and older men and their families are encouraged to set and implement goals to improve their health. Think about ways to improve your health status. Do you want to lose weight or stop smoking? Do you desire to sleep better, gain muscle, or eat a healthier diet? Begin by working with your family to set small and achievable goals. Establish goals to know your preventable risks for disease. Take steps to create healthier habits, including scheduling routine tests for the early detection of disease. Document your family history with your physician. Join in the national recognition of Men’s Health Month by wearing blue Dr. Denyce Watties-Daniels on Friday, June 14th. Show your Assistant Professor at family you care about your future Coppin State University by taking charge of your health. DWatties-Daniels@coppin.edu healthytips025@gmail.com www.gracenglorymagazine.org 13
