There are clear differences between the way men and women approach their health. Men tend to have a common misconception that as long as things seem to be working correctly, everything is in good shape. However, experts from the University of Miami Health System agree that this is not necessarily true. From mental health to preemptive care, these medical experts discuss ways men can stay safe and healthy.
Don’t skip regular checkups.
To keep cars running smoothly, we should take them in for regular checkups. The same is true for a man’s body; it needs regular physical examinations. If neglected, small problems can become big ones. Dr. Bruce Kava, a urologist and director of men's health at the University of Miami Health System, explained that many men tend to skip routine screenings—which are based on guidelines from the American Urological Society and Men’s Health Network—and that is not a good approach to maintain proper health. Learn more about how regular health checkups can help spot small issues before they become big problems.
Explore options to combat obesity.
Obesity has been proven to lead to higher rates of heart disease, vascular disease, diabetes, and cancer in men. Society has too commonly considered metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) a weight loss procedure and not a life-saving intervention. “A focus needs to be placed on the proven health benefits of MBS,” says Dr. Nestor de la Cruz Munoz, medical director of bariatrics at UHealth. “Particularly its ability to cure Metabolic Syndrome and prevent subsequent heart disease.” Men are being placed at higher risk because they are not aware that they have an option. Read more about the benefits of bariatric surgery.
Identify the signs of depression.
It’s difficult to recognize a growing issue if you are not aware of the warning signs. Depression doesn’t mean feeling sad or gloomy all the time, and not everyone experiences it the same way. Studies have shown that ignoring or hiding signs of depression can actually contribute to more frequent, longer-lasting bouts of the symptoms. The right kind of help from a professional may be all you need, according to Dr. Firdaus Dhabhar, professor in the department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Recognize the early signs of depression.
Know that some cancers are preventable.
In the United States, colorectal cancer is known as the third leading cause of cancer deaths among men, most commonly affecting those older than 60. Medical professionals, like Dr. Laurence R. Sands, a colorectal surgeon at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, recommend that a screening colonoscopy be performed starting at age 50, or even younger for individuals at higher risk. Many men, unfortunately, fail to undergo this important procedure during which precursors to colorectal cancer can be found and removed. Learn more and schedule a colonoscopy.
Discover treatment options for prostate conditions.
Men older than 50 have a higher risk of experiencing an enlarged prostate. This condition, called Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), can cause them to have pain or trouble urinating, urinary tract infections, and even bleeding. While treatments vary depending on the individual, a new procedure called prostate artery embolization may be a safer and easier option. If left untreated, BPH could lead to a series of health complications including kidney stones, infection, lack of bladder control, or complete bladder outlet obstruction. Discover more about the symptoms of BPH and the treatments available.
Loneliness can kill you.
It may sound harmless, but not maintaining meaningful relationships can be devastating to a man’s overall health and well-being. Loneliness can even have long-term dangers—similar to those associated with smoking—and has even been linked with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. Studies have shown that for men, social isolation and living alone can increase their odds of dying prematurely by up to 32 percent. Find out more about the proven benefits of connecting with others.
Above and below the belt.
Dr. Bruce Kava recently shared insights on men’s health during a webinar. In his talk, he answered questions, helped men develop a better understanding of health issues that impact them “above and below the belt,” and discussed ways to develop a strategy for pursuing a proper men's health checklist. Watch the video and learn more about UMiami Health Talks.
Access the medical care you need at a UHealth facility or via telehealth by scheduling an appointment. Find additional information about scheduling or call 305-243-4000.
Live Well with UHealth is a series highlighting curated content from articles previously published on UMiami Health News, a site that shares useful health tips and insights into research discoveries that change lives, brought to you by the experts at UHealth—University of Miami Health System. This story highlights the following articles:
- Health Checkups: You Need Them, Guys by Carlos Harrison, June 12, 2020
- Is Colorectal Cancer Preventable? by Laurence R. Sands, M.D., June 29, 2020
- Men With BPH Have Options by John Senall, Feb. 3, 2020
- Extremely Overweight Men Have Options by Nestor de la Cruz Munoz, M.D., June 29, 2020
- Big Boys Do Cry – and That's Cool by Carlos Harrison and revised by Dana Kantrowitz, June 30, 2020
- The Greatest Threat to Men's Health? Loneliness by Carlos Harrison and revised by Dana Kantrowitz, June 30, 2020
