The statistics tell an alarming story. If you’re a man, your health is at risk.
Research shows on average, men die five years earlier than women. They also die at higher rates from the three leading causes of death – heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries.
The goal of Men’s Health Month, held every June, is to raise awareness for men’s health problems and to encourage early detection and treatment. This month, Blue KC urges our male members to take control of your health. We also encourage families to teach boys about the importance of developing healthy habits at a young age.
Ways to celebrate Men’s Health Month
Men’s Health Month is the perfect time to kick off healthier living. Here are some tips to live by any day of the year. Hey man …
Eat healthy.
Start by taking small steps like saying no to supersizing and yes to a healthy breakfast. Eat many different types of foods to get all the vitamins and minerals you need. Add at least one fruit and vegetable to every meal.
Get moving.
Play with your kids or grandkids. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Do yard work. Play a sport. Keep comfortable walking shoes handy at work and in the car. Most importantly, choose activities you enjoy to stay motivated.
Make prevention a priority.
Many health conditions can be prevented or detected early with regular checkups with your healthcare provider. Regular screenings may include blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and prostate health. When was your last checkup?
Need help finding a provider? Use the Find Care tool in your member portal at MyBlueKC.com. Once logged in, visit the Find Care section to search and compare providers in your network, view quality information, read reviews, and more.
Source: Menshealthmonth.org, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention