1. DON'T BE RECKLESS
Things that go fast – like cars, gravity and bullets – don’t mix with alcohol. Think before you engage in reckless activities.
2. QUIT SMOKING
Second hand smoke is a KILLER. Don’t spend time with, or let your loved ones be around, people who smoke. If you smoke or chew tobacco, quit now!
3. GET FIT
Stay fit and thin. Obesity is the number one cause of diabetes and excess weight affects your knees, hips and back. Nutrition counseling and classes are available.
4. TESTICLE CHECK
Testicular cancer is the leading cancer of younger men (15 to 30 years of age). Check your testicles regularly, and if there’s a lump that shouldn’t be there, see a doctor. If you don’t have a primary care physician, you can find one online.
5. ASK FOR HELP
Suicide is a major threat for men under 40 years of age. It takes true strength to ask for help. Ask for it! If you don’t know where to start, try St. Luke’s Center for Community Health or the local NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
6. CHECK YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE
Check your blood pressure every six months to keep heart attacks and strokes at bay. If it’s pushing 140/90, see your doc.
7. CHECK YOUR CHOLESTEROL
Get your cholesterol checked at least every other year – every year if you have a family history, are obese or smoke.
8. PROSTATE EXAMS
Keep an eye on your prostate. Talk with your doctor about exam options based on your age and family history.
9. TIME FOR A COLONOSCOPY
Most colon cancers can be prevented. If you have family history, get a screening colonoscopy at age 40. If not, start at age 50. Get a free home colon screening kit by visiting here.
10. LIVE TO ENJOY RETIREMENT
If you’re an average American male, you will die more than five years earlier than your wife or female significant other. If you both retire at age 65, she will spend 45% of her retirement as a widow. Our advice: DON’T be average!
This article of Sun Valley Magazine's Body & Soul blog is sponsored by St. Luke's Wood River Medical Clinic.
