Guys, visiting the doctor is something you do when you get sick, right? And – there’s no argument – it’s important to visit the doctor when you're sick. But, there are other important reasons to visit the doctor, too.
Health problems like prostate cancer, heart attacks and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) don’t always show early warning signs. And, they can turn your life upside down if caught too late. The only way to know if you’re truly in the clear is by going to the doctor.
Men aren’t taking their health seriously
Take heart disease for example, the No. 1 killer of men. Men are 22 percent more likely than women to skip cholesterol tests. These essential tests provide an early red flag for a heart attack. Plus, men are less likely to visit the doctor at all. That means risk factors for things like heart attacks go undetected.
Depending on your age, your doctor will recommend preventive care and tips for maintaining your best health. Most men start losing muscle mass in their 30s. By age 45, it’s time to start colon cancer screenings.
Are you up-to-date on care? Find out by entering your age here.
Shouting it from the rooftops with KARE 11: ‘Real Men Wear Gowns!’
HealthPartners is teaming up with KARE 11 to bring awareness to men’s health. Together, we’re talking about how Real Men Wear Gowns – hospital gowns, that is. We’re doing it to promote the importance of regular checkups and screenings.
And we need your help. Share this article with the men in your life. Encourage them to visit the doctor this year and make smart health choices. They’re worth it.
Learn more about Real Men Wear Gowns by reading the real man’s guide to good health.
Men: have you worn a gown lately?
Do you wait until your problem is extreme to seek treatment? Do you skip annual physicals because you “feel fine?” Don’t forget that your health is important. And, catching a life-threatening issue like prostate or colon cancer before it’s too late will mean better health. If cost is holding you back, ask your health insurance what they cover. Many pay for preventive care at 100 percent.
To schedule a men’s health appointment:
- Call HealthPartners at 952-967-7676, or
- Call Park Nicollet at 952-977-1001
Find out what you’ll pay for an office visit at our Twin Cities metro and western Wisconsin medical clinics.