As men and women age, their health needs differ. While both men and women should see their United Hospital District physicians regularly for screenings and other important preventive health measures, gender differences require individualized approaches to wellness. Sometimes, men can benefit from the care of a urologist. June is Men’s Health Month, which is a perfect time to take a closer look at how men can stay healthy throughout their lives.

A Glance at Important Men’s Health Topics

How Do Men’s Bodies Affect Their Health?

Men and women differ in many other ways beyond their anatomies. Biological factors, such as sex chromosomes, hormones, and metabolism are responsible for women tending to outlive men. Men die five years earlier than women on average, and they experience a higher rate of most leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, injuries, stroke, suicide, and HIV/AIDS.

In addition, men may experience erectile dysfunction (ED) with age, which in many cases may be the first indication of more serious health conditions, especially heart disease. This is why physicians often order further testing for patients experiencing ED.

How Can Men Support Optimal Health as They Age?

To reduce the risk of serious disease and feel your best at every stage of life, men should establish a comprehensive preventive health routine well before symptoms start. This includes minimizing processed foods, regular exercise, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables as well as seeing a physician for annual exams, starting around age 40. Starting at age 40, men with a family history of prostate or breast cancer should have an exam and screening blood test to check for prostate cancer as well as future risk of developing the disease. Those without a family history of the disease should start screening at age 50.

During these appointments, men can discuss any new or developing health changes as well as lifestyle factors and family history concerns. Should any symptoms such as ED or urinary problems arise, UHD’s family physicians can refer male patients to our urologist, Dr. Christopher Gran, who is highly experienced in men’s health and can work to evaluate and treat the problem. This preventive approach can help control a man’s risk of premature death from illnesses such as prostate cancer and heart disease, among other conditions.

If you’re seeking a team of physicians to help you meet your evolving healthcare needs through every phase of life, turn to United Hospital District in Faribault and Martin Counties, MN. This team of providers offers a broad range of specialties and services, from family medicine to urology and surgical care. Explore their full list of services online or call them at (507) 526-3273.