Men — health checks vital to longer, happier life
“Globally, men die on average five years earlier than women, and for reasons that are largely preventable. Which means that it doesn’t have to be that way: wecan all take action to live healthier, happier and longer lives.”
The top five suggestions the Mov ember movement makes are:
1. Spend time with people who make you feel good
2. Talkmore
3. Knowthe numbers
4. Know thy nuts (do regular selfchecks of your testicles)
5. Move more.
Knowing your numbers is about being screened for common diseases at the right time. Your doctor can test your PSA, blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol levels as well as other regular screening tests.
Twenty-five per cent of menaged 55 years and older have a prostate condition, increasing to 50 per cent by 70 years. The prostate gland is about the size of a walnut, encircling the urethra and is located at the base of the bladder. The most common prostate problems are enlargement (BPH), inflammation and cancer. The most serious of these, prostate cancer is the third most common cause of cancer death. Men that are over 50 years, have a family history of prostate, breast or ovarian cancer, eat a diet high in fat and low in fresh fruit and vegetables or have high testosterone levels, maybe more prone to prostate cancer. Symptoms to talk to your doctor about include: ● frequent or painful urination ● blood in urine or semen ● a weak stream ● pain in the back or pelvis ● unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
Early detection and treatment can significantly improve survival and a PSA test is the most common first step. This blood test measures the proteins made by both normal and cancerous prostate cells.