Men’s Health Month: Time to Step Up and Prioritize Your Health

Calling all men—when was your last checkup?

From toddlers to teens to older adults, everyone benefits from an annual visit with their primary care provider (PCP). Yet studies show that men are less likely than women to keep up with routine care. With June being National Men’s Health Month, there’s no better time to take control of your health—or help the men and boys in your life do the same.

According to the CDC, men in the U.S. die an average of five years earlier than women and face higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries. The good news? Many of these outcomes are preventable with early action and healthy habits.

Set the Tone with Healthy Daily Habits

Leading a healthy life isn’t about perfection—it’s about making smarter choices every day. Whether you’re looking out for yourself or setting an example for your son, these tips can help:

Get enough sleep.
Adults need 7–9 hours of sleep per night, while children—especially preschoolers—need 10–13 hours to support growth and development. Poor sleep is linked to chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression, and it also increases the risk of accidents.

Eat well.
Fuel your body with a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit sugary snacks, salty foods, saturated fats, and alcohol. A nutritious diet supports long-term health and reduces the risk of chronic disease.

Be active.
Physical activity improves mood, supports heart health, helps manage weight, and more. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week, plus two days of strength training. Children ages 3 to 5 should stay active throughout the day—make it fun! Go for a walk, bike to the library, or spend time at a local playground.

Quit tobacco.
There’s never a wrong time to stop smoking. Quitting now lowers your risk of heart disease, cancer, and lung disease—and sets a powerful example for children and teens in your life.

Manage stress.
Stress isn’t always bad, but when it becomes overwhelming, it can harm your physical and emotional well-being. Find healthy ways to cope—connect with others, eat well, exercise, and avoid using substances to cope.

Stay Ahead of the Game: Get Regular Checkups

Don’t wait until something feels wrong to visit your doctor. Routine checkups can detect problems early—even when symptoms aren’t obvious. That’s especially important for common men’s health concerns like high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or prostate issues.

Watch for warning signs like chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive thirst, or changes in urination. If anything feels off, get it checked out right away.

Keep track of your numbers.
Know your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and body mass index (BMI). Your provider can explain what they mean and how to manage them if they’re outside the healthy range.

Ask about preventive screenings.
Depending on your age and medical history, your provider may recommend bloodwork, cancer screenings, or other routine tests. Make a list of questions before your visit and don’t hesitate to speak up.

Stay up to date on vaccines.
Immunizations aren’t just for kids. Adults also need certain vaccines—and some may need boosters over time. Ask your provider what’s recommended for your age and health conditions.

Know your family health history.
Understanding the conditions that run in your family can help your doctor personalize your care. Talk to relatives, keep a written record, and update it regularly.

Make Your Health a Priority—This Month and Beyond

This Men’s Health Month let’s raise awareness about preventable health problems and support the early detection and treatment of diseases in men and boys. Whether you’re a father, brother, son, or friend—your health matters.

Start by scheduling your annual checkup. If you’re looking for a trusted provider, use our Physician Finder or check out our featured practices across the Capital Region area with appointments soon.

Taking care of your health today can lead to a longer, healthier tomorrow. Let’s get started.

Sources
www.cdc.gov
www.mayoclinic.org