Top Men’s Health Concerns

Health Concerns Every Man Should Know

Many men find themselves only heading to see their primary care doctor when they're suffering from serious health complications. However, having routine check-ups and health screenings can help with the early diagnosis and treatment of certain health conditions.

In light of Men's Health Month, the health experts at Antelope Valley Medical Center are here to shed some light on which health concerns should be on every man's radar when it comes to maintaining their health and wellness.

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States, being responsible for roughly 25% of male deaths each year. Often referred to as a “silent” killer, more than half of the men who die suddenly at the hands of heart disease have shown no previous symptoms of having heart disease.

Some major risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing heart disease in men include:

• Being overweight or obese
• Leading an inactive lifestyle
• Drinking alcohol excessively
• Smoking and using tobacco products
• Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes

When it comes to type 2 diabetes, men are much more likely to develop this chronic health condition at a lower weight than women. It is believed that the differences in weight distribution between the sexes leave men at an increased risk. Men tend to carry their excess weight in their midsection.

Because men are less likely to have their diabetes accurately diagnosed, they are at an increased risk for developing the following health issues from leaving their diabetes untreated:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Having an overactive bladder
• Heart disease
• Recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Retrograde ejaculation (semen releasing into the bladder)

Prostate Cancer

About 13 in 100 men will get prostate cancer during their lifetime. Unfortunately, 2 out of 3 of these men will die from prostate cancer. With such shockingly high statistics, it’s important for men to get routine screenings for early detection to ensure more successful treatment. According to the CDC, men between 55 and 70 should have a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test every 2 to 3 years.

Please keep in mind that there are various factors that may leave you at an increased risk for developing any of these health issues. If you're unsure how often you should be tested or screened, be sure to reach out to your primary care team.

Lab Services in Lancaster, CA

At Antelope Valley Medical Center, we believe that accessibility and convenience are important when it comes to getting the health care services you need. That’s why Antelope Valley Medical Center's Hospital’s Outpatient Laboratory offers a full range of clinical laboratory and anatomical pathology services without the need for an appointment.

Call (661) 949-5000 or visit our dedicated lab services page for more information.