Men’s health statistics often aren’t something to celebrate. Men live an average of five years less than women. They’re more likely to have high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. And they face more severe cases of dementia.
But hope is available in the form of testing and lifestyle changes that can help slow or stop the progression of these conditions, say experts at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation. And that can help make this Men’s Health Month a time to celebrate.
“Men are less likely to get preventive care than women,” said Hal Scofield, M.D., an OMRF physician-scientist. “Many go through young adulthood without needing anything specific from their doctor, so they put it off.”
For years, scientists have studied how and why men are less likely to seek care. Study after study has shown traditional ideas about masculinity — like the need to be tough or brave — result in men ignoring medical problems. A 2022 survey by the Cleveland Clinic found more than half of U.S. men forgo regular checkups.
Scheduling annual physicals and building a relationship with a primary care physician can be critical to prevent a serious condition, though the “delayed gratification” of these visits can be difficult, Scofield said.
“Conditions like cancer and vision loss are much more treatable with early detection, which is only possible through testing like colonoscopies and eye exams,” Scofield said.
For Father’s Day, which also comes along each June, a conversation about a healthy lifestyle may be the best gift to give.
OMRF scientist Jasim Ahamed, Ph.D., studies cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death for American men. As many as 1 in 4 male deaths is attributed to heart disease each year in the U.S.
The American Heart Association recommends regular blood pressure and cholesterol screenings beginning at age 20. These and other simple tests, like blood sugar assessments, are “inexpensive and effective” ways to monitor heart health, Ahamed said.
In addition to testing, Ahamed also recommends proven heart-healthy habits such as a diet based on vegetables and fruits, whole grains and lean proteins, as well as regular physical activity and reducing stress.
“Encourage the men you care for to live a heart-healthy lifestyle,” Ahamed said. “Exercise doesn’t have to be boring; any activity that gets you moving will be a benefit.”
Scofield noted that by combining social connections with cardiovascular fitness, men check two important boxes. “Social isolation is associated with an increased risk of dementia and other serious conditions,” he said. “Blending fitness and friendship is a win-win.”
