Mega Doctor News
While men face unique health challenges, experts say routine preventive care, healthy lifestyle habits and early intervention can significantly improve health outcomes and overall quality of life.
Yet despite advances in healthcare, many men still delay or avoid seeking medical care, increasing their risk for serious health conditions.
In fact, men are up to 50% less likely than women to seek medical care or participate in preventive health services, according to the National Institutes of Health. Research shows that 37% to 47% of men delay or avoid medical appointments, even when experiencing concerning or identical symptoms to others.
“Many men grow up with the mindset that seeking help is a sign of weakness, which can make them less likely to prioritize their health,” says Mike Menowsky, MD, FACEP, an emergency medicine physician affiliated with South Texas Health System (STHS) and program director of the STHS GME Consortium’s Emergency Medicine Residency Program. “But delaying care can allow minor issues to become serious conditions.”
Delaying care can transform highly treatable conditions, ranging from urological and sexual health concerns to metabolic and mental health issues, into advanced-stage illnesses.
The result: higher rates of preventable chronic disease, more emergency interventions and significantly poorer long-term health outcomes.
“The longer men put off medical care, the greater the risk that manageable conditions will become serious, long-term health issues,” says Dr. Menowsky. “Early detection and prevention are key to maintaining health and avoiding more complicated treatments down the road.”
Making healthy lifestyle choices is key to preventing disease and maintaining overall well-being.
As part of its commitment to preventive care, South Texas Health System urges men to take a proactive approach by incorporating the following habits into their daily lives:
Stay on Top of Your Screenings: Schedule annual wellness exams and age-appropriate health screenings.
Know Your Risk Factors: Understand your family’s health history and discuss risks with your healthcare provider.
Fuel Your Body: Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.
Get Moving: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.
Prioritize Rest: Aim for seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night.
Manage Stress Effectively: Use healthy coping strategies and seek support when needed.
Make Healthier Choices: Avoid tobacco products and limit alcohol consumption.
Care for Your Mental Health: Be mindful of your mental well-being and speak openly about emotional health.
“It’s the small, consistent steps that make the biggest difference over time,” says Dr. Menowsky. “Prioritizing preventive care and healthy habits today can help men stay healthier well into the future.”
STHS encourages men to take charge of their health by scheduling preventive screenings, staying active and speaking openly with healthcare professionals about any concerns. Proactive steps today can help ensure healthier tomorrows for individuals, families and the community.
To support these efforts, STHS offers a preventive Men’s Health Check panel at its seven freestanding emergency departments across the Rio Grande Valley for an affordable cash price of $30. To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit SouthTexasHealthSystem.com.
Information source: STHS
