The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. Preventive care, including regular doctor visits, is important for everyone. There are certain tests and screenings that are appropriate for both men and women at various life stages, and some that are specific to men and their needs. Consider incorporating these screenings, tests and exams into your life to promote good health and prevent the onset of preventable conditions.

  • Body Measurement – Men over the age of age 20 should have their body measurement taken every two years. The measurements can revel if someone is obese or overweight.
  • Blood Pressure – Men should have their blood pressure taken at least every two years to detect early signs of hypertension (high blood pressure).
  • Cholesterol Screening – Men should have a cholesterol test every five years after the age of 20. High levels of cholesterol raise the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Fasting Blood Sugar – Men should have a blood sugar test every three years after the age of 45 to measure a risk for diabetes.
  • Colorectal Cancer Screening – Men should have a colorectal screening to detect cancerous cells and growths in the inside wall of the colon after the age of 50.
  • Prostate Cancer Screening – Men over the age of 50 should have a yearly digital rectal exam and prostate screening test.
  • Testicular Cancer – All teenage males and adult men should have a testicular exam every time they visit the doctor for a physical exam.

Celebrate Wear Blue Day, on Friday, June 16 by wearing something blue to raise awareness of making healthy lifestyle choices, scheduling regular annual visits to the doctor, getting educated on heart disease or diabetes, starting general health conversations with their male friends, and overall well-being.  Have some fun in the workplace and encourage employees to take photos showing off their blue and use the hashtag #ShowUsYourBlue, and post to your company intranet or social media page.

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