Keeping Up With Men's Health

June is Men's Health Month, which brings awareness to preventable health issues that men should keep in mind. Men’s Health Month also seeks to promote the importance of early detection of disease and illness, such as through health screenings. In addition, Men’s Health Month is a great time to become educated about overall wellness, including the importance of seeing a doctor at least annually. 

Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease is the top health threat that men face. It’s a leading cause of death for men and women, even amid the pandemic, and includes:

• Stroke
• Heart attacks
• Blockages of arteries

The good news is that the risks of cardiovascular disease can be reduced with lifestyle changes and choices. If you smoke, stop. Keep your blood pressure at good levels through exercise and a healthy diet. And get regular physicals so your doctor can track your health over time.

Cancer Screenings

Skin cancer, prostate cancer and lung cancer are among the most frequent diseases men get. You can certainly limit your risk of lung cancer simply by quitting smoking. Smoking is lung cancer’s most common cause, and smoking leads to other diseases and health problems. Cancer screenings, including CT scans of the lungs to detect lung cancer, are key to early detection and protecting your health both short and long term. 

Colon cancer screening is also essential to good men’s health as well. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine, now recommends that colon cancer screening be performed starting at age 45. If you have a family history of colon cancer or other genetic risk factors, screening may start earlier. You also can opt for a stool test or colonoscopy- discuss your options with your provider.

Urology Care

Urology care certainly is an important component of men’s health. In addition to prostate cancer, conditions include:

• Enlarged prostates
• Kidney stones
• Erectile dysfunction
• Incontinence

Enlarged prostates slow or block the flow of urine. Prostate cancer can be detected through a blood test; again, early detection increases the odds of successful treatment with medication or surgery.

Overall care, which also includes a COVID-19 vaccination, starts with a routine health assessment. Garnet Health Doctors has nine locations, including the new Goshen office at 102 Clowes Avenue in the Goshen Plaza, to serve you. 

To set up an appointment at any Garnet Health Doctors location, call (845) 333-7575. You also can schedule a visit at garnethealth.org/doctors or through the new Garnet Health app, which is available for download from the Apple Store or Google Play.