NW Missouri Times

As Men's Health Week is observed, PHS aims to raise awareness about preventable health issues and promote early detection and treatment of diseases in men and boys. The organization emphasizes the importance of developing healthy habits early on to prevent future diseases.

The recommended practices include minimizing stress, getting adequate rest, wearing sunscreen, limiting alcohol intake to two drinks per day, avoiding smoking and secondhand smoke, maintaining a moderate weight, steering clear of high-risk activities like extreme sports, always wearing seatbelts in vehicles, practicing safe sex with barrier methods such as condoms, and wearing helmets when cycling or motorcycling.

Regular medical checkups are advised even for those without known health concerns. Men under 50 should have a checkup at least every three years to monitor body mass index, skin health, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. These indicators can help predict risks for heart disease and diabetes.

Additional preventive health recommendations for men include dental and eye exams every six to twelve months and receiving an annual flu vaccine. For children, parents are encouraged to discuss the HPV vaccine with their son's healthcare provider. Adults should get the Tdap shot for protection against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough), followed by a Td booster every ten years.

Starting at age 50, regular tests for colon cancer are advised. Around age 60, vaccinations for shingles and pneumonia become important considerations.