While the research varies on the details, one fact remains: women are still outliving men by an average of six to eight years. If you’re a man, the good news is that the gap has shrunk over time, thanks to strides in the medical field and a greater focus on prevention. And, many of the top chronic conditions for men, such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity, are treatable with lifestyle changes and early detection.
Consider these results from a recent Cleveland Clinic men’s health survey:
- Only 3 out of 5 men reported getting annual physical exams.
- Forty percent said they only go to the doctor when they think they have a serious medical condition.
- More than half said their health isn’t something they want to discuss.
June is Men’s Health Month, which raises awareness of preventable health problems and encourages boys and men to seek help for medical issues early—before they become serious and costly to treat. Here are a few tips to help you (or the men in your life) take steps to improve overall health:
- Get an annual physical exam. If you don’t have a relationship with a primary care physician, this is a good opportunity to form one. Often, the first signs of a chronic medical condition can be diagnosed from an exam or lab work ordered at a routine physical. If you’re covered under the UnitedHealthcare (UHC) medical plan, preventive care exams and screenings are covered at no cost to you.
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Schedule age-recommended tests. The most common screenings recommended for men age 50 and older include:
- Blood pressure and cholesterol, which should be tested at least every two years (annually if your normal reading is elevated or you have increased health risks, such as smoking or diabetes). Both tests are typically ordered as part of an annual physical.
- Colorectal screening, which typically involves an annual fecal occult blood test and a colonoscopy every 5 or 10 years, depending on your health and family history.
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening, which is a test for early detection of prostate cancer. Discuss this test with your doctor, who can advise you on whether you need this test and, if so, how often.
- Blood glucose panel, which is recommended if you’re overweight, you’re at risk for Type 2 diabetes, or you have high blood pressure. Your physician will work with you on when this screening is appropriate.
- Make time to move. Getting regular activity for 30 minutes a day a few times a week can build strength and boost your immune system. If you’re just starting, consider spreading your activity out over more days so you don’t have to do it all at once.
- Pay attention to what you eat. A healthy diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat dairy foods—and lean proteins, such as poultry, fish, eggs and nuts. Limit foods that are high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, salt and added sugars.
- Limit your alcohol intake. The recommended limit for men is no more than three drinks a day. Moderating your alcohol intake lowers your risks for heart and liver disease.
- Quit smoking. The leading cause of preventable death, smoking also contributes to disease and disability and harms nearly every organ system of the body. If you need help quitting, talk to your physician and mention that Transocean’s medical plan covers smoking cessation drugs at no cost to you.
For more details about age-recommended screenings, consult with your doctor. To learn about what preventive screenings are covered by your UHC medical plan, go to www.myuhc.com or call UHC directly at the phone number shown on your medical ID card.
