June is Men’s Health Month, and with Father’s Day approaching, there is no better time to discuss men’s health and the importance of annual screenings. Did you know that on average, men die five years younger than women? They also die at higher rates from nine of the top ten causes of death, including heart disease and cancer. U.N.I. Urgent Care wants to help you prevent disease and live longer, healthier, happier lives. After all, you are our fathers, brothers, sons, grandfathers, and friends!
A few simple measures can go a long way in preventing disease in men. Getting annual physicals with your healthcare provider can help establish a baseline for factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and cancer risk. After this baseline is monitored, your provider can see changes over time which could allow for early detection of dangerous diseases. Early detection means being able to fight the disease while it is still treatable. Contact any of our U.N.I. Urgent Care locations to book your physical today.
At your annual physical appointment, we can discuss a plan of action for screenings based on your current health. The CDC suggests the following annual screenings for men:
- Colorectal (Colon) Cancer
Colorectal cancer almost always develops from precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) in the colon or rectum. Screening tests can find precancerous polyps, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. Screening tests also can find colorectal cancer early, which is when treatment is often most effective.
- Lung Cancer
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends yearly lung cancer screening with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) for men who are between 55 and 80 years old and who have a history of heavy smoking, who smoke now or who have quit within the past 15 years.
- Prostate Cancer
Screening for prostate cancer begins with a blood test called a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test. This test measures the level of PSA in the blood. PSA is a substance made by the prostate. The levels of PSA in the blood can be higher in men who have prostate cancer. The PSA level may also be elevated in other conditions that affect the prostate.
While the common diseases and cancers affecting men differ, one thing that remains consistent is that early detection and prevention are key. If you have questions or suspect that you or a loved one needs a physical, screening, or treatment, the providers at U.N.I. Urgent Care can help. Call us today at 443- 656-0306.
*https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/cancerandmen/
*https://health.gov/news/blog-bayw/2018/06/june-is-mens-health-month/
*https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/prostate/basic_info/screening.htm