SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (KFVS) – Health officials say early diagnosis is key to survival, but only three out of five men are getting vital screenings.
June is Men’s Health Month, meant to encourage men to keep up with important tests and seek treatment when needed.
Data shows only a little more than half of men 18 and older go in for yearly checkups, while less than half will seek treatment when a condition becomes serious.
According to Rural Health, Inc., skipping these steps makes men more likely to die from cancer, heart disease, diabetes and stroke than women.
Shawnna Rhine said it’s important for men to realize that risk.
“We are seeing men going to the doctor a lot less often than women. Oftentimes, it’s out of fear of what they might hear, but because those numbers are down, we’re finding…men are experiencing more disease and more death as a result from preventable situations.”
Rhine said there are four areas where men should be taking action:
- Bring up existing concerns to health care providers
- Discuss family history of disease
- Schedule important blood tests and cancer screenings
- Talk about mental and emotional health concerns
For blood tests, Rhine said to ensure a full panel is done, including checking kidney function, diabetes and cholesterol. Keeping blood pressure in check is also important.
Rhine said a lot of men also miss cancer screenings like colonoscopies, melanoma, lung and prostate.
When it comes to mental and emotional well-being, Rhine said there’s still stigma around seeking support.
“Men tend to hold a lot of things to heart, but it is important if you’re going through something to talk with a provider so you can get the mental support that you need as well.”
Receiving a diagnosis can be scary or stressful, since it will most likely require lifestyle changes and treatment.
“A lot of changes take place and it’s hard to accept those things. Also, men, they’re very strong and they want to continue that persona, and rightly so. But it’s important for them to also realize that by getting those early checks that they are preventing long-term health effects down the road.”
Rhine said prioritizing health is for young men, too, beginning even at age 18.
“That’s when you need to start talking with your family about any history that you have of cancer, heart disease, stroke in the family.”
Dental and vision exams should not be left out.
“We find with men that are starting those regular exams and regular appointments, they’re very grateful because they are catching things early and they’re getting things taken care of before they become serious.”
With Father’s Day observed Sunday, June 21, Rhine said it’s a great time to reconnect with family members and encourage them to put their health first.
“Go ahead and have that conversation with your dad, with your grandpa. Find out what are some of the backgrounds as far as health goes. Conversations that nobody wants to have, but are so important.”
Rhine said there’s still time in the year for an annual screening. Rural Health, Inc. is taking appointments.
Clinics are located in Anna, Dongola, Goreville, Metropolis and Vienna.
Call (618) 833-4471 to reach the main clinic in Anna, or visit ruralhealthinc.org.
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