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June is Men’s Health Month

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Zade Vadnais
  • 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. --  June marks Men’s Health Month, which is an opportunity to increase awareness about health issues important to men such as prostate, testicular and colon cancers as well as those facing all Americans such as hypertension, obesity and heart disease.

According to the National Institutes of Health, men are more likely than women to make unhealthy choices and delay medical checkups and regular medical care. Most major health risks faced by men can be prevented by being more mindful about personal care and developing healthier habits.

The Centers for Disease Control recommends that adults get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity and depression are all linked to lack of sleep. Additionally, motor vehicle and machinery-related accidents are linked to poor quality of sleep.

Discontinuing use of tobacco products such as cigarettes, smokeless tobacco and tobacco vaporizers, or vapes, has both immediate and long-lasting benefits. Tobacco cessation lowers risk of heart disease, cancer and other smoking related illnesses in addition to keeping those in frequent contact with the tobacco user away from second- and third-hand smoke.

The CDC also recommends eating a variety of fruits and vegetables every day and making a commitment to exercising throughout the week. Finding constructive ways to handle stress and making sure to stay on top of medical check ups have also been proven to extend expected lifespan and improve quality of life.

Although intended to focus on health issues important to men, Men’s Health Month is a good opportunity for everyone to step up their health and ensure they’re living the happiest life possible.

For more information on integrating healthy habits into your life and breaking free from bad ones, contact Shaw’s Health Promotion office at 803-895-1216 or visit http://www.airforcemedicine.af.mil.