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June is Men’s Health Month, and we also celebrate Father’s Day, so how can men take care of their GI health…
Don’t put off regular checkups… It’s hard to schedule doctor appointments when you feel good, but it is important to be proactive about your health. Regular checkups can allow physicians to detect and control diseases which can be harder to treat in advanced stages.
Get regular screenings… According to the American Cancer Society the lifetime risk for men developing colorectal cancer is about 1 in 23. Colorectal screening starts at age 45 for those at average risk. If there is a family history, screening can start earlier. The primary test is a colonoscopy because if colorectal polyps are found they can be removed before they can develop into cancer. Colon cancer usually does not exhibit any symptoms during its early stages, when it is most treatable, which makes getting screened vital to keep you healthy.
Don’t ignore symptoms… If you are not feeling well or feel as though something is not right, call your doctor. Don’t wait and think it will pass. Key symptoms to pay attention to are chest pain, shortness of breath, heartburn, blood in stool or urine, altered bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, and unexplained fatigue. All of these can be signs that something is going on with your health so don’t ignore them!
Hunterdon Gastroenterology Associates is here to help. Give us a call to schedule an appointment today! 908-483-4000.
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