Jackson Hospital | Partners | Winter 2019

jackson.org 9 It’s dangerous to generalize about half the population, but when it comes to men and routine healthcare, it’s safe to say: Men could do better. For instance, compared to women, men are more likely to put off seeing a doctor. Men also drink more, smoke more, and gen- erally make more unhealthy or risky choices in their lives. During a routine checkup, a doctor can: Keep track of your vaccines. He or she will make sure you get the shots you need when you need them. Vaccines may include an annual flu shot, a tetanus booster, and shots to prevent pneumonia and shingles. Plan or perform screening tests. These tests can spot diseases early—often before symptoms crop up—when they are easier to treat. Routine checks may include blood pres- sure measurements, cholesterol screenings to help find heart disease and a blood test designed to detect diabetes. Other tests can indicate depression or various types of cancer. Support your healthy habits. Your doc- tor can help you create a diet and exercise plan and help you find answers to your health questions. And if you use tobacco, your doctor can help you quit. Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force *African American men should talk with their doctor at age 45. Sources: American Cancer Society; American Diabetes Association; American Heart Association; National Osteoporosis Foundation; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 50 PROSTATE CANCER* Ask your doctor about screening. LUNG CANCER Be screened annually based on your history of smoking. 55 65 ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM Be screened once between ages 65 and 75 if you’ve ever smoked. 70 OSTEOPOROSIS Start screening (or earlier based on risk factors). Men: Take control of your health Better healthcare starts with regular visits to a primary care doctor. If you don’t have one, now is the time to get one.