It is important to meet regularly with a healthcare provider to ensure you are in good health and caught up on key screenings. However, studies have shown that men are less likely than women to seek routine healthcare. What’s worse, many people have chosen to delay their appointments during the COVID-19 pandemic.
With Father’s Day right around the corner, Heart of Texas Healthcare System is urging men to take their health seriously and to schedule routine screenings with their providers.
“Certain health conditions affect men differently, and meeting regularly with a healthcare provider is key to ensuring that they are caught early for better treatment,” Dr. Stephen Douglas Bell, Family Medicine physician at Brady Medical Clinic, a service of Heart of Texas Healthcare System. “Regular check-ups are also important for ensuring you are in good overall health so you can live your best life.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men are 80 percent less likely to visit a medical provider for preventive care than women. In addition, the CDC reports that 12.4 percent of men 18 years and older are in fair or poor health. The CDC also reports that an estimated 34.5 percent of men 20 years and older are considered obese and 32.6 percent have high blood pressure.
In McCulloch County, Brady Medical Clinic offers convenient routine healthcare services, including health screenings that give men the information they need to take charge of their health. From blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and other health conditions, routine check-ups are an important part of every man’s health journey.
According to Dr Bell, many people have chosen to delay important healthcare services, including routine screenings. However, doing so can put your health at risk.
“Neglecting your health is never a good idea,” He said. “Routine screenings help detect potential issues early so that you can get the treatment you need. Certain cancers that affect men can be treated more effectively in their earlier stages.”
Prostate cancer and testicular cancer are among the most common diseases that exclusively affect men.
According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), prostate cancer is the most common male-specific cancer in the U.S., and it accounts for an estimated 9.6 percent of all new cancer cases in the country.
Prostate cancer is most common among men ages 55 to 74. According to the NCI, it is more likely to occur in men with a family history of prostate cancer and among men of African-American descent.
Testing for prostate cancer can be performed through various screenings, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and digital rectal exams recommended by a physician.
Testicular cancer is another condition that often occurs among men ages 20 through 54. According to the NCI, more than 251,000 men in the United States are living with this type of cancer. Fortunately, this type of cancer can typically be detected at an early stage through frequent self-examinations for unusual lumps or swelling in the testicles, or if men experience aching in the testicles.
A cost effective and proactive way to protect your health is by scheduling an annual wellness exam with your primary care provider. According to Dr Bell, early screenings not only help men save money in the long run but can also save a life when a disease is caught early.
“You can take comfort knowing that it is safe to visit your provider,” Dr Bell said. “It is important that you take steps to protect your health. Scheduling a routine health screening is a great way to do that. Don’t delay the care you need”
In McCulloch County, Brady Medical Clinic is a convenient choice for preventive care, including various men’s health screenings. To learn more about local medical services or to find a provider, visit www.heartoftexashealthcare.com or call Brady Medical Clinic at 325-597-2114.
About Heart of Texas Healthcare System
Heart of Texas Healthcare System provides healthcare for residents of McCulloch County and the surrounding area. Founded in 2011, the system offers a wealth of medical services, including 24-hour emergency care, advanced radiology services, a clinical laboratory, dialysis services, physical therapy, surgical services, patient education, sleep studies, and more. The system also owns and operates Brady Medical Clinic, which provides family medicine, preventive care, and acute care for minor emergencies. For additional information, please visit www.heartoftexashealthcare.org.