With the annual Movember fundraising event in full swing, we put the spotlight on men’s health.
According to Movember, across the world men die an average six years younger than women. Many of these reasons are largely preventable, so below we look at the ways that men can take action to live healthier, happier and longer lives.
1. Keep an active social life
Many men can lose their important social connections as busy lives take over. It’s important to spend time with your mates as keeping in touch regularly has a number of health benefits. Whether it’s a quick catch up or a regular phone call – spending time with people who make us laugh and feel good is great for your mental and physical health.
2. Don’t be afraid to talk
Often men can feel like they must be stoic and soldier on, even when times are tough. Sometimes this can lead to bottling up feelings which can increase the risk of depression. By opening up about tough topics you give your friends permission to do the same.
According to Movember, 70% of men say their friends can rely on them for support, but only 48% say they rely on their friends. Reaching out for help and being honest about your feelings is not a sign of weakness, it can actually help your friends too.
3. Know your prostate cancer risk
The risk of prostate cancer increases as you get older, so talk to your doctor about your risks and whether you should have a PSA test. This is a simple routine blood test that’s used to determine the measurement of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) concentration in the blood. Early detection is key, as survival rates are better than 98% when prostate cancer is detected in its early stages.
4. Check your testicles
Check your testicles regularly and go to the doctor as soon as something changes or doesn’t feel right. It’s best to add this into your showering routine and be on the lookout for a change in size or shape, a lump that wasn’t there before, or if your testicles are painful to touch.
5. Get moving
Regular exercise is important for good health and has a whole range of benefits, including assisting you to reach and maintain a healthy weight, strengthens bones and muscles, increases brain function, lifts mood and can ease depression and anxiety symptoms.
6. Eat well
To make sure you’re still getting the nutrition you need, aim for five servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit each day. Pair these with fibre-rich options such as wholegrain bread, rice and pasta and low-fat proteins such as meat, dairy and fish.