On this day of backyard barbecues and necktie gifts, it's a perfect time to remember what keeps the men in our lives, well, in our lives. For as long as possible. By simply being aware of the following Top 5 Men's Health Threats (gathered with statistics from the CDC), you're already doing something to protect the health of yourself or the men around you.
1. Heart Disease. You can steer clear of the single biggest threat to men's health by not smoking; managing chronic problems like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes; limiting alcohol; keeping stress at bay, and staying trim and fit with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
2. Cancer. Men need to avoid the top cancer killers which include lung cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer. Respectively, don't smoke, get regular skin and prostate screenings, and don't skip your colonoscopy (recommended at regular intervals for ages 50+).
3. Accidents. Wear your seatbelt, honor speed limits, never drink and drive, and don't take the wheel when you're sleepy.
4. Chronic Lower Respiratory Diseases. DON'T SMOKE. (It's that simple.)
5. Stroke. See #1, heart disease, as the same safeguards apply for stroke. Also, know the warning signs, which include sudden numbness, tingling, weakness, or loss of movement on one side of the body or face; sudden vision changes or trouble speaking; sudden problems with walking or balance; and sudden, intense headache.
Have a happy, healthy Father's Day!
