State health officials are reminding Hoosier men to take precautions to protect their health for Mens Health Month in June.
There are many conditions that disproportionately affect men, said State Health Commissioner Jerome Adams, M.D., M.P.H. Many of these health conditions, however, can be avoided with healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical care.
Cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death nationwide, and it affects men especially. Between 70 and 89 percent of sudden cardiac events occur in men.
Some health conditions affecting men, such as prostate cancer and diabetes, can either linger for years with no symptoms or show symptoms that can easily be confused with other conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are six steps that can help lower mens risk of chronic disease.
Get good sleep Adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression.
Toss out the tobacco Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term benefits. It improves health and lowers the risk of heart disease, cancer, lung disease, and other smoking-related illnesses.
Move more Adults need at least 2 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week, and muscle strengthening activities that work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms) on two or more days each week.
Eat healthy Fruits and vegetables have many vitamins and minerals that may help protect adults from chronic diseases. Limit foods and drinks high in calories, sugar, salt, fat, and alcohol.
Tame stress Stress can be harmful when it is severe enough to make one feel overwhelmed or out of control. Find ways to deal with stress constructively and avoid drugs and alcohol.
Stay on top of your game Have regular check-ups with a doctor or nurse. Certain diseases and conditions may not have symptoms, so work with your healthcare provider to identify issues early or before they can become a problem.
For more information or to schedule an appointment with a Primary Care Physician, call Decatur County Primary Care (812-662-0588) or Tree City Medical Partners (812-663-6396).