OGDENSBURG – June is Men’s Health Month, and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center joins hundreds of other local and national organizations to educate the public about the many preventable health problems that affect men and boys and empower them and their loved ones to move towards a healthier, happier life. This month inspires health care providers and individuals to encourage men and boys to seek regular medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.

According to the CDC, on average, men in the United States die five years earlier than women and die at higher rates from the three leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries. Men make up the majority of workplace injuries, are less likely to be insured, and far less likely to see a doctor for preventive care. During Men’s Health Month, we encourage men to take control of their health and for families to teach young boys healthy habits throughout childhood.

Additionally, it’s important for senior men to be sure to get regular checkups. Not only will you live longer, but you’ll also have a better quality of life. Even if you don’t feel sick, it is essential to see your doctor regularly and schedule annual exams for all ages.

Depending on your age, Johns Hopkins recommends some of these routine health tests for men:

Abdominal aortic aneurysm

Blood pressure

Colorectal Cancer

Depression

Type 2 Diabetes

Lipid disorders

STD

According to the Health in Aging Foundation, 40% of men said that when sick, they delay seeking medical care for a few days; and 17% percent said they would wait “at least a week.” It’s important to listen to your body and seek prompt medical care when feeling ill. If you are in need of a primary care provider, Claxton-Hepburn offers a variety of primary care providers accepting new patients throughout St. Lawrence County. Visit us at www.claxtonhepburn.org/findaprovider to learn more.

Some steps you can take to maintain optimal health as you age include taking your medications as directed, and know why you are taking them and what the possible side effects could be. It’s important to keep an up to date list of medications and dosages handy. It’s also important to keep up with recommended immunizations including for flu, shingles, pneumonia and diphtheria/tetanus.

Healthy eating is important at all ages. Work towards a whole-food diet that includes fruits, vegetables, lean meats, nuts, healthy oils and whole grains. Limit processed foods as they contain sugar, fat, salt and refined grains and offer very little nutritional benefit. A diet high in processed foods can lead to many chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.

Being active at all ages is important as well. Depending on your age will determine your activity level. Younger males should be active for about 120 minutes a day while older males should be active about 30 minutes a day. Additionally, adding more activities of living into your daily routine will add to your activity level each day. Try not to sit for more than one hour at a time. Consider using a fitness tracker to help motivate movement.

Be sure to use sunscreen, all year long. According to Skincancer.org, up to 50 percent of Americans who live to age 65 will have at least one skin cancer, and Caucasian men are particularly at risk. It’s never too late to take steps to prevent further damage from the sun. Try to avoid the sun during peak hours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., wear a hat and sunglasses, and liberally apply SPF 30 or greater sunscreen to all exposed skin.

This Men’s Health Month, consider making a commitment to getting a health checkup.If you’ve recently had one and you are at risk, consider making changes to your lifestyle to improve your health. For more information and resources, go to http://www.menshealthresourcecenter.com. To learn more about how Claxton-Hepburn is working to keep you North Country Strong, visit us on Facebook or the web at www.claxtonhepburn.org.