Celebrate the healthy men of the District with some tips for maintaining your wellness all year long. Take a look at the list below and begin taking steps to improve your health.
- Select a doctor. Having a consistent medical provider who sees you regularly can help monitor any health changes and catch small things before they become big problems.
- Get preventive screenings. Discuss the following screenings with your healthcare provider and ask how often you should have these screenings based on your risk factors, age, and family history: prostate cancer screening, colon cancer screening, and bone density screening.
- Take care of your heart. Your doctor can help you monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and other risk factors and discuss heart-healthy lifestyle habits.
- Perform testicular self-exams regularly. Check for lumps and nodules. This article from the American Cancer Society shows how to perform a proper self-exam.
- Eat balanced meals. Follow this rule: Make half your plate fruits and vegetables, one quarter protein, and one quarter grains at each meal.
- Stay on top of your mental health. It’s important to talk to someone or seek help if you’re experiencing depression, stress and anxiety. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the suicide rate among men is nearly four times higher than among women. Lean on your family and friends for support during tough times.
- Limit alcohol and quit tobacco. Men who have more than two alcoholic drinks daily are at higher risk for certain diseases, such as cancer. Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the United States.
- Strive for good sleep. Aim to get between 7.5 and 8.5 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep is the time that your body uses to repair and re-energize.