Fox Cities News

Life expectancy for American men is nearly six years shorter than that of women, highlighting the importance of Men’s Health Month in June. This month-long focus serves as a reminder for men to prioritize their health and well-being. Dr. Andrew Dunn, a Family Medicine Physician with ThedaCare Physicians-Neenah, emphasized the need for men to take positive steps toward improving their health.

“When it comes to health risks, men often can face greater challenges in some areas,” Dr. Dunn stated. “The good news is that men can take many positive steps to help protect and improve their health long-term.”

Dr. Dunn outlined several major health risks that men face and provided advice on how to mitigate them.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for both men and women. Factors such as high blood pressure, smoking, alcohol consumption, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, and family history contribute to heart disease risk. Dr. Dunn encouraged men to adopt heart-healthy habits and be aware of their family history.

Cancer is another significant concern for men, with prostate, colorectal, lung, and testicular cancers being the most common after skin cancer. Cancer risk increases with age but younger individuals are also increasingly diagnosed. Dr. Dunn advised discussing risk factors and family history with healthcare providers and adhering to cancer screening guidelines.

Smoking is identified as the leading cause of preventable death in the United States according to the CDC. It causes more than 480,000 deaths annually and is linked to lung cancer among other diseases. “This one is pretty straightforward: If you smoke, then quit,” said Dr. Dunn.

Excessive alcohol use poses short-term risks such as motor vehicle crashes and long-term risks like cancer and liver disease. The CDC recommends moderation in alcohol consumption.

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Regular physical activity is recommended—at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly.

Weight issues also pose significant health risks including type 2 diabetes and heart disease; more than a third of American men are overweight or obese.

Mental health management is crucial too; managing stress and seeking help when needed are important steps toward well-being.

Dr. Dunn emphasized the role of primary care providers in addressing these concerns: “Understand that you’re not alone.” Primary care providers offer support without judgment and facilitate specialist referrals if necessary.

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