The Scoop on Talking to Men About Health
As a woman, you’ve probably had your fair share of doctor’s visits or discussions with friends about your health will little to no hesitation. Unfortunately, health-related visits or talks are not nearly as common among men—often leaving them detached and unaware of important health information.
If you have tried to talk about health with the man in your life and received that blank stare, here are some tips to get the conversation started.
Family Health History
Find out what his health history is. If he doesn’t know, help him investigate by reaching out to family members or past doctors to collect this valuable information. By knowing what diseases or illnesses run in his family you can help spot or prevent complications in the future.
Food and Fitness
Address diet choices and exercise habits. Work on helping him maintain a healthy weight by limiting alcohol consumption, not smoking, and eating a balanced diet full of fruits, veggies, and protein. Help him make room for fitness at least 3-5 times a week. Low impact cardio, such as walking or swimming for 30 minutes is a great place to start. Remember food and fitness are crucial components for overall heart health as men age.
Vasectomies
Get the low down so they don't toss this one aside. For most men the thought of a vasectomy is unwelcome to say the least—but that’s typically caused by fear of the unknown. Here’s what to tell your partner—the procedure can typically be done within 20 minutes, it’s the most effective form of birth control, and the recovery period only lasts a couple of weeks.
Screenings and Testing
Focus on cancer prevention. Checking for prostrate, lung, and colon cancer are all routine screenings that need to be completed regularly as men age.
Routine Testing Decade By Decade
30’s
• Physical every two years
• Annual blood pressure check
• Thyroid, testicle, lymph nodes, mouth and skin cancer testing every 3 years
• Cholesterol test every three years
• Testicular self-exam every month
40’s
• Annual blood pressure check
• Thyroid, testicle, lymph nodes, mouth and skin cancer testing every 3 years
• Testicular self-exam every month
• Cholesterol test every three years
• Physical every two years
• Baseline prostate exam
• Stool test every year to check for colon or rectal cancers
50’s
• Annual blood pressure check
• Thyroid, testicle, lymph nodes, mouth and skin cancer testing every 3 years
• Testicular self-exam every month
• Cholesterol test every three years
• Colonoscopy every three to fouryears
• Annual PSA and DRE exam
Whether it’s your father, son, husband, brother, or friend—the health of the men in your life matters to you and naturally you want to make sure they take the necessary steps to keep them protected over the years. Realize that it may take time for them to adjust to a modified lifestyle or routine check ups. Start by having a conversation today.