Did you know that, on average, men in the United States die five years earlier than women?
And according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average American man will live to age 74, while the average woman in America will live to age 79. Men are also more likely than women to have diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
This is why it’s so essential for men to get regular checkups.
Here are seven reasons why:
1. Regular checkups can help catch problems early.
Catching a problem early is always better than waiting until it’s too late. With early detection, you can often avoid more serious health problems down the road.
2. You’ll get personalized advice.
Your doctor can give you personalized advice on how to stay healthy based on your family history, lifestyle and health goals. They can also help you create a plan to manage any chronic conditions you may have.
3. You can talk about sensitive issues.
Sometimes it’s hard to talk about sensitive issues with anyone, let alone your friends or family. But your doctor is trained to deal with sensitive issues, and they can help you find the resources you need to stay healthy.
4. You can get vaccines and health screenings.
Your doctor can also provide vaccinations to protect you from diseases like influenza, which is especially important for men over 50. Check out the CDC’s recommended adult immunization schedule. Your healthcare provider can also provide health screenings for conditions like cancer and high blood pressure.
5. You can build a relationship with your healthcare provider.
Having a regular doctor that you see for checkups can help you feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues and make it easier to get the care you need. Building a relationship with your doctor can help them better understand your unique health needs.
6. You’ll be able to review your medications.
Your doctor can also help you manage the medications you’re taking. This is especially important if you take multiple medications for different health conditions. They can ensure that the medicines are working and that there aren’t any dangerous interactions between them.
7. You’ll establish or build your medical record.
If you ever need to see a specialist or go to the hospital, you’ll have a medical record that details your health history and current medications. This can be especially helpful if you have a chronic condition like diabetes or heart disease. Tanner MyChart is an excellent way for you to keep track of your medical history and connect with your provider.
8. You can calm your fears.
It’s normal to worry about your health. But if you’re getting regular checkups, you know you’re doing everything possible to stay healthy.
If you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, it’s time to schedule a checkup. And if you have any concerns about your health, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor.
We’re there to help you stay healthy and live your best life. So don’t wait.
Schedule your checkup today. Your health depends on it.
If you don’t have a primary care doctor, use our Find a Provider tool to find a provider in your area.