Men’s Health Month promotes regular health check-ups and screening tests

June is Men’s Health Month and is an important reminder for men to keep up with regular checkups. Dr. Rukan Ahmed, physician for Kettering Health Springfield, highlights some of the main health concerns that men face, including heart disease, blood pressure, diabetes, cholesterol, prostate and colon cancer. While there is no limit to the number of health issues that can affect men, Ahmed acknowledges the challenge of getting men to care about their health.

Ahmed recommends that most men should start routine prostate and colon cancer screenings at age 45. It is important for men to talk with their doctors about family history, lifestyle choices (such as smoking or vaping), and to determine if health screenings should begin earlier. Ahmed emphasizes that prevention is key and finding issues early can help prevent irreversible damage.

In addition to physical health, Ahmed stresses the importance of men discussing their mental health with their doctors. Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet there may be an unspoken rule among some men to not talk about their feelings. Ahmed believes that prioritizing mental health is crucial, especially for those who are predisposed to avoid addressing their mental health concerns. Men should not overlook the importance of caring for their mental well-being as it plays a significant role in their overall health.