It’s November and for men all around the world that means “No-Shave November” and “Movember” are officially underway. While the tradition of ditching the razor, channeling your inner Tom Selik, and growing a mustache for the next 30 days is a great one, what is the real meaning behind it? November is Men’s Health Awareness Month – a month dedicated to promoting awareness for men’s health conditions such as testicular cancer, prostate cancer, and mental health issues. Did you know that:
- Males in the United States live 4.8 years less than females on average.
- 317,000 men in the US die from cancer every year. The most common being prostate cancer.
- One man commits suicide every minute, of every day around the world.
The Cleveland Clinic found that 82% of men want to stay healthy so they can live longer for friends and family, yet only 50% engage in preventative care. The likelihood of successfully treating prostate or testicular cancer increases tremendously if they are caught early but men are statistically less likely to go to the doctor, even when they know something is wrong.
As a space created for men, by men, we’re dedicated to ending the stigmas surrounding men’s health, and providing you with care that is comfortable and effective. We want to help you take control of your health and address all aspects of it.
Prostate cancer
Screening for prostate cancer can be as simple as a blood draw at any Total Men’s Primary Care clinic. The American Cancer Society recommends discussing screening with your provider:
- At age 50 if you are at average risk.
- At age 45 if you are at high risk – African American men and men who have a father or brother diagnosed with prostate cancer before age of 65.
- At age 40 if you are very high risk – Men who have had more than one close relative diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Testicular cancer
Testicular cancer is the leading type of cancer in men ages 15-44. A monthly self-examination can help you become familiar with the look and feel of your testicles to quickly detect changes that may be of concern. If you do happen to notice a lump or feel a painful sensation when examining, schedule an appointment with your Total Men’s Primary care provider for further consultation.
Mental Health
Around 1 in every 10 men experience some type of anxiety or depression. Men die by suicide at a rate of 3.54% higher than women, yet 50% of men who experience mental health issues do not seek help. Our providers at Total Behavioral Health are well-versed in caring for patients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, substance abuse, and many more mental health related issues. You don’t have to battle mental health issues alone. Your mental health matters, just as much as your physical health.
This Men’s Health Awareness month, let’s shave away the rumors that we can “just rub dirt on” or “tough out” our health concerns – both mental and physical.
