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News from Lady of the Sea
June is Men's Health Month
June is Men's Health Month, and the providers at Lady of the Sea would like to use the month of June to increase awareness of preventable health diseases and wellness offerings in our community. "I encourage men and boys in our community to participate in annual wellness exams appropriate for their age and health, and to consider health screenings to encourage early detection and treatment of disease," said Jay Vega, MD, physician at Lady of the Sea Medical Clinic in Cut Off, LA.
New research and statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show a significant decline in life expectancy for men in the US. Additional research and studies continue to show a significant difference when it comes to accessing healthcare for men compared to women. Men are less likely to schedule routine doctor's appointments, and they only make about half as many doctor visits for wellness or preventive care as women. Preventive visits are essential for managing and improving health. Here are some facts and links to additional information on men's health:
- According to the CDC, the average lifespan for men is 73.2 years, six years less than women whose life expectancy is now 79.1 years. This is the largest gap in life expectancy between men and women since 1996. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2022/20220831.htm
- The top three causes of death for men include heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries. https://www.cdc.gov/minorityhealth/lcod/men/2016/all-races-origins/index.htm
- Men have a higher rate of getting and dying of cancer as compared to women. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/resources/features/cancerandmen/index.htm
- Men are also less likely to undergo treatment for mental health conditions such as depression. The rate of suicide is highest in middle-aged white men. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/databriefs/db419.htm and https://afsp.org/suicide-statistics/
Here are some recommendations for men to help them stay on top of their health:
- Take part in an annual wellness screening and exam! Most insurances offer full coverage for an annual wellness visit. Review your policy information for details. You can expect a thorough review of your health including screening labs and tests if you have certain risk factors, along with time for discussion with your provider during your annual visit.
- Discuss with your primary care physician any concerns you may have about your physical and mental health! Your PCP is well educated and experienced in guiding patients to the best care that is necessary to enjoy a full healthy life. Trust them with your concerns and follow their advice.
- Watch what you put into your body! If you smoke or drink alcohol, consider how that is affecting your health. There are new nicotine replacement options to assist people to quit smoking. Controlling or lowering alcohol consumption will result in a healthier body. Healthy nutrition can make the difference when healing from an illness or disease. If you're sexually active, practice safe sex to protect both you and your partner's health. Lastly, wear your seatbelt when riding in a vehicle, use personal protective devices (PPE) when handling hazardous material or in an unsafe environment and wear a helmet if riding a motorcycle.
- Protect your mental health! Regular exercise has been shown to help both mental and physical health. Join a gym and experience both the physical benefits as well as surrounding yourself with the social side of people seeking the same goal. Find a hobby that brings you a feeling of accomplishment and satisfaction. Make time to hang out with family and friends, people who enjoy your company and bring you a feeling of belonging. Seek out a mental health professional to discuss your concerns.
Lady of the Sea Medical Clinics are providing primary care and mental health visits in our community. After Hours at Lady of the Sea Medical Clinic in Cut Off offers healthcare visits without an appointment in the evenings and on weekends. For emergencies, Lady of the Sea ER is open 24/7 and is located at 104 West 134th Street in Galliano. We encourage the men and boys in our South Lafourche community to pay attention to their health, and to seek care and wellness for themselves and their loved ones.