With men at a higher risk for the “silent killers” – hypertension and diabetes – getting a regular checkup should be a no-brainer. But more than half of men in the U.S. haven’t even seen a doctor in the past year! That’s a scary number when it could be a loved one’s health at risk.
Urgent Care of West Hartford is urging men to come in for their routine exam.
We’ve put together a Checkup Checklist that men can follow to get the most out of their doctor visit and make sure they are getting the quality care they need!
The Checkup Checklist for Men
Viewing the doctor as an ally rather than an adversary can lead to a longer, healthier life. According to the National Institutes for Health, men should go over the following with their doctor:
- Blood pressure: Normal blood pressure is 120/80. If your numbers are higher, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, medication or monitoring.
- Cholesterol: Men ages 34 and over should be checked every five years.
- Colon cancer: Men over age 50 should get regular screenings for colorectal cancer.
- Heart disease: According to the CDC, high blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and smoking are key risk factors for heart disease. About half of Americans (49 percent) have at least one of these three risk factors.
- Immunizations: It is important to get a flu shot every year. Other vaccinations may be needed if you have other medical conditions.
- Osteoporosis: Men ages 50-70 who smoke, drink alcohol or are sedentary, should be screened for osteoporosis.
- Prostate cancer: Men over 50 should get a prostate cancer screening annually. Those with a history of prostate cancer and black men should start screening at 45.
What keeps you from getting a checkup each year? Or better yet, what convinced you to start getting a checkup?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and questions, and don’t forget that you can get your checkup at the newest Urgent Care in West Hartford, on Boulevard & Prospect Ave.
