June is National Men’s Health Month, an opportunity to highlight the health challenges men face and what steps they can take to manage their well-being.
Men are much less likely than women to visit a doctor or report symptoms to a healthcare provider. Only 60 percent of men have an annual check-up, and 40 percent wait until they experience serious issues before seeking medical attention.
“Despite these statistics, 20 percent of men see a doctor mainly to appease their significant other or a loved one,” said Helen Bernie, DO, MPH, Director of Male Sexual and Reproductive Medicine and Assistant Professor of Urology. Bernie also leads Indiana’s only male sexual and reproductive medicine fellowship. “Encouraging the men in your life to visit a doctor is crucial. Your encouragement can make a difference!”
Here are some other important facts about men’s health:
The overall mortality rate is 41 percent higher for men than for women, and it is higher for men in 8 out of the 10 leading causes of death—including heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes.
31 percent of men experience depression in their lifetime, and 9 percent have daily feelings of depression or anxiety. However, only one-fourth talk to a mental health professional, and only one-third take medication. It's important to recognize signs of depression and seek help without hesitation.
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States. Men are 2 to 3 times more likely to develop prostate cancer if a father, brother, or son has had it. Discuss with your doctor about checking PSA and DRE levels.
Erectile dysfunction affects nearly 30 million men of all ages across the United States. If you're experiencing problems, consult a urologist to ensure it's not an early warning sign of more serious conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or high blood sugar.
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