Men’s Health Month: Make time to prioritize your health

This article is one of a three-part series focused on Women’s Health Month, Men’s Health Month and MESSA’s preventive care benefits.

Hey, men, real talk: It’s time to put away your ego and pride and visit the doctor. Have you had your prostate examination yet? Did you schedule a colonoscopy? What about your annual physical? Don’t want to get poked or prodded? Well, stop thinking that way because the life you save may be your own.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the life expectancy for U.S. men is five years less than for women. Why? Because women tend to go to the doctor more often.

June is Men’s Health Month — an opportunity for you to commit to health, exercise, good habits and well-being. In a recent Cleveland Clinic survey, only half of the 1,174 men surveyed said they get regular checkups and 72% would rather do household chores such as mowing the lawn or cleaning the bathroom than see their doctor. Really, guys?

“Men tend to be stubborn about a lot of things, with taking care of their health usually near the top of the list,” said Eric Klein, M.D., chairman of Cleveland Clinic’s Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute.

Here are some common excuses men have when asked why they don’t visit the doctor: “I don’t have time.” “I don’t want to hear what I might be told.” “I’d rather tough it out.”

Sounds stubborn and macho. But here’s what’s not so macho: Men have a higher rate of many illnesses and are more likely to die from heart disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes or Alzheimer’s.

The good news: You can prevent many illnesses if you take time out of your busy schedule — or turn off the ballgame — and visit your health care provider.

Health experts recommend that men in their 30s have a routine check-up every other year; for men in their 40s and beyond, every year. So, get it done: schedule that doctor’s appointment and actually go. If not for yourself, do it for those in your life who depend on you and love you.

Your MESSA health plan has excellent benefits and programs that support your body and mind. Toss the excuses out the window. Take time to make your health a priority.