FIVE WELLBEING AWARENESS TIPS FOR MEN TO CONSIDER

Every year, in the run up to Father's Day (Sunday 17th June!), International Men's Health Week takes place, encouraging men around the world to check in on their physical and emotional health, and rightly so! According to MHFI, men have a life expectancy four-and-a-half years shorter than women, and higher mortality rates for all leading causes of death. Adult men are at higher risk than women of cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and cancer. The Irish Cancer Society states that over 10,000 men in Ireland are diagnosed with cancer each year.

In the run up to Father's Day, the best gift you could give your father or partner is to encourage him to check his health. Men are more likely than women to ignore symptoms or delay visiting the GP. To celebrate Men’s Health Week, in this week’s blog we list our top five health awareness tips for men to consider.

KNOW THE EARLY WARNING SIGNS

Recognizing possible warning signs of serious illnesses such as cancer and taking prompt action can lead to early diagnosis and much better prospects of full recovery. If you identify any of the symptoms below, see your GP. Talk to your doctor if you notice anything unusual, as it is always better to err on the side of caution. Early detection greatly increases the chances for successful treatment.

• New lumps or growths on your skin
• A sore or bruise that does not heal
• A mole that changes in shape, size, or color or bleeds in unusual circumstances
• An ongoing cough or hoarseness that lasts longer than three weeks
• Indigestion or difficulty in swallowing
• A change in bowel or bladder habits for no apparent reason
• Shortness of breath
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss or tiredness
• Blood where it normally shouldn't be – in urine, bowel movements, or from spitting

KNOW YOUR FAMILY HISTORY

Many men worry that they are at greater risk of getting cancer if it is present in their family, but this isn’t always the case. Statistically, cancer is more common among older people, so most families will have at least one person who has had cancer. However, experts say that less than 5% of cancers are linked to an inherited gene fault.

According to the Irish Cancer Society, the strength of your family’s history depends on:

• More than two close relatives on the same side of your family have had cancer
• The cancers developed when they were young (under the age of 50)
• One of your relatives has had a gene fault found by genetic tests

Talk to your doctor, who can help you identify if your family history of cancer is of concern. Your doctor may suggest that you make regular visits for screening. In this way, you can pick up problems early.

GET A HEALTH CHECK - EVEN IF YOU ARE WELL

Make an appointment with your GP now while your health is your focus. Your attention on this matter might not last! Ask for a health check-up tailored to your needs, age, medical, and family history to identify your risks.

There are a range of screening options available for those who want a full health check-up, a sort of NCT for your body! A lot of clinics offer “standard screens” which involves a consultation with a nurse for height, weight, blood pressure, and blood tests, lasting about 40 minutes. If you would like a more in-depth medical appraisal, you can undergo a lengthier screening process that includes cholesterol tests, urinalysis (including glucose and protein to check kidney function and to screen for diabetes), lung function tests, heart assessments, and visual assessments. This takes about 3 hours and also includes a lifestyle analysis, a stress assessment, and a review of current diet and exercise regime.

Excluding health insurance or company benefits, screenings can cost from €180 - €450. You can view a list of national screening services the government offers for free here. There is also the option of claiming the cost of a health check back against your tax, by submitting a Med 1 form.

A POOR LIFESTYLE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR A HIGH PROPORTION OF CHRONIC DISEASES

The key to cancer and other serious illness prevention might lie in your hands. By taking simple steps such as maintaining a good diet and engaging in a bit of exercise, every man can improve his chances of living a happy and healthy life.

According to the Irish Cancer Society, 4 out of 10 cancer cases are preventable by following the EU Code Against Cancer. View their 12-step program here. Studies show that men who follow a healthy lifestyle, including being physically active, are 18% less likely to develop cancer. For some helpful tips on how to get started, see here!

MAINTAIN HEALTHY STRESS LEVELS

When we hear the word 'health', most of us think of diet, exercise, and genes. However, stress can pose serious risks to your health. Stress that's left unchecked can contribute to many health problems, such as high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

According to MHFI, 31% of men in Ireland ‘regularly’ or ‘constantly’ experience stress, and almost 20% of men are either ‘somewhat’ or ‘completely’ ineffective at managing stress. A man’s capacity to manage stress effectively decreases the lower his socio-economic status, which can cause significant harm to his health. Problems related to stress or mental health often pose a threat to a man’s masculinity, leading many men to self-care or remain stoic rather than seek help. Alcohol and other drugs are sometimes used as coping mechanisms for stress, as they are perceived as more masculine ways of coping.

At a healthy level, stress can be a good thing in our lives, motivating and driving us to achieve. However, once it reaches unhealthy levels over a long period, it can become chronic and detrimental to our health. Consider how you are currently managing stress, and if you have any concerns, talk to your GP about putting a plan in place to help manage any anxieties you may have.