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Men’s health

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Your Life, Your Health

According to the most recent report from The National Center for Health Statistics, the average life expectancy for a female born today is 80.9 years versus 76 years for a male. That’s a difference of almost 5 years. Griffin Hospital’s Health Initiative for Men (HiM), a community-wide preventative healthcare effort, was developed to help inspire men to have an annual physical and to raise awareness about men’s health issues such as prostate cancer and colorectal cancer. June may be Men’s Health awareness month and No-Shave-November may help put a focus on men’s health initiatives and bring an awareness to what men can do to help themselves, but don’t wait until then to take action!

Griffin Health offers programs, events, support groups, health screenings, diagnostic services and treatment options though out the year right where you live, work and play.

Why the gap in life expectancy between the sexes?

It has been found that:

  1. Men tend to smoke and drink more than women
  2. Men are at a higher risk for the development of heart disease and some cancers
  3. Men do not seek medical attention as readily as females
  4. Men tend to have higher levels of stress

The good news is that many of the major health risks that men face, such as heart disease and colon cancer, can be prevented and treated with early diagnosis. Screening tests are an effective way to identify disease in its early stage when it is easier to treat. Regular check-ups and screening exams are an important way to stay ahead of poor health.

Leading causes of death in males

As reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, here are the top 10 causes of death in all males of all ages in order. It’s important to note that all causes listed in red are in some ways preventable – meaning they don’t need to happen if you are willing to give your health a top priority in your life by working closely with your physician and specialists, maintain a healthy lifestyle, identify areas of need, ask for help when you need it and change your habits and activities as needed.

  1. Heart disease – Preventable
  2. Cancer- lung and colon – Preventable
  3. Unintentional accidents/injury – Preventable
  4. Chronic lower lung disease – Preventable
  5. Stroke – Preventable
  6. Diabetes – Preventable
  7. Suicide – Preventable
  8. Alzheimer’s disease – Preventable
  9. Kidney disease – Preventable
  10. The flu or pneumonia – Preventable

Wellness in 7 easy steps

Once you’ve checked routine health screenings and regular doctor visits off your list, practice these 7 easy steps and keep your body healthy for year’s to come. Challenge yourself. These are easier said than done, but all are achievable if you choose to be healthy and well.

  1. SLEEP
    Get enough sleep. Adults need between 7-9 hours a night of sleep. Get help addressing sleep disturbances
  2. QUIT
    If you smoke, and / or do drugs, Get help and QUIT.
  3. MOVE
    Maintain a healthy weight and activity level. Adults need at least 2 ½ hours of moderate activity a week.
  4. CHOOSE WISELY
    Eat healthy foods. Eat a variety of fruits and veggies every day. Cut out the sugar.
  5. RELAX
    Manage your stress – exercise, read, listen to or play music, meditate and relax.
  6. CUT YOURSELF OFF
    Limit your alcohol intake.
  7. BE SAFE
    Be aware of your surroundings and fall-risks – avoid risky behaviors & activities.
  8. STAY ENGAGED
    Engage in activities that promote healthy mind, body and spirit, engaged with your doctor, community, your family & friends.
  9. ASK FOR HELP
    Everyone can use some guidance and support now and again. Know when to ask and be persistent in getting the help you need.
  10. PREVENT
    Follow the age-appropriate preventive health guidelines. (Don’t just see your doctor when you are sick.)

5 great reasons to visit your doctor when you’re NOT sick.

All adult men should visit their doctor from time to time even when they feel “healthy”. Routine, “well visits” should be scheduled throughout the year, every year throughout life. Some of the most important reasons for visiting your physician include:

  1. SCREENING for diseases and conditions
  2. ASSESSING the risk of future medical problems
  3. ENCOURAGING a healthy lifestyle
  4. UPDATING vaccinations
  5. MAINTAINING a relationship with a doctor in case of an illness