Why Modern Masculinity Means Prioritizing Men’s Health
Peter Graham, M.D.
| 3 min read
Peter T. Graham, M.D., is the clinical director for the Blue Care Network. He graduated from the Michigan State University College of Human Medicine. Dr. Graham is board certified in Family Medicine and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He has been a Family Physician since 2001.
Traditional views of masculinity center around concepts of strength, power, independence and the ability to protect others. Unfortunately, that way of thinking has also been associated with lower rates of proactive and preventive healthcare in men living in the United States.
But traditional views are changing in discussions about what it means to be a man in today’s society. Many men now recognize that prioritizing their physical and mental health is a key part of modern masculinity, not a sign of weakness.
Routine screenings lead to better outcomes
June is Men’s Health Month – a perfect reminder for men to schedule their annual health exams and appropriate health screenings.
Health exams and screenings can identify many health issues in their early stages when they are easier to treat and when maintenance plans can be put in place to help keep the issues in check. Screenings for adult males who do not smoke include:
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Blood sugar
- Mental health/depression
- Colon cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Skin cancer
Men should talk with their primary care provider (PCP) to determine appropriate timing for these screenings, based on their individual health history and symptoms.
What are signs of low testosterone?
Some health issues can feel awkward to discuss, a fact that may contribute to men delaying or avoiding medical care. But discussing concerns with a healthcare provider is a necessary first step to getting issues addressed appropriately.
One such concern is age-related testosterone decline. Typically, a man’s testosterone level declines by about one percent yearly after age 40. Even with this steady rate of decline, most men continue to have a testosterone level in the standard range of 300 to 1,000 ng/dL.
Testosterone level is measured through a blood test and is considered low when it is below 300 ng/dL.
So, when should men consider getting their testosterone level checked? Men should talk with their PCP if they experience the following symptoms:
- Reduced sex drive
- Trouble getting or maintaining an erection
- Increased body fat
- Depression or low energy
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of armpit or pubic hair
- Swelling or tenderness in breast tissue
- Infertility
- Hot flashes
- Loss of muscle mass
Some men may not experience any symptoms, which is another reason it’s important to stay up to date on health exams and screenings.
How to support testosterone levels
Men who do have low testosterone can consult with their PCP or specialist to discuss their treatment options. For men with normal, age-related testosterone decline, healthy lifestyle habits can reduce the risk of developing low testosterone.
- Stay physically active
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get enough sleep
- Eat a healthy diet of nutritious foods
- Quit smoking
- Manage stress levels
While society’s views on the true definition of masculinity may not change overnight, true strength can be found when men take charge of their health and focus on preventive care, empower themselves and prolong their lives for themselves, their families and their loved ones.
Peter Graham is clinical director for the Blue Care Network. For more health tips and information visit bcbsm.mibluedaily.com.
Photo credit: Getty Images
