This month we will talk about men’s health. And while I will get to the health topics that happen to men only, I want to start with the basics. The number one killer of males is cardiovascular disease. The second is cancer – lung, colorectal, and prostate. Accidents come in at number three. Many men suffer from diabetes. So when we talk about the things that affect the quality of male lives, we are talking mostly about conditions that affect females as well.

I have previously, and will continue in the future, to focus on specific health issues. But let me just repeat myself – in order to be healthy, one must eat healthily, maintain a healthy weight, exercise, not smoke, get routine medical exams, screenings and vaccinations (yes, adults need vaccinations too!), manage stress, know your family history so you know your own health risks, and have safe behaviors (use seatbelts, sunscreen, smoke detectors, don’t speed). These things are true for all of us! Now, on to male health.

For men under 50 years of age, the most common prostate problem is prostatitis. This is an inflamed or irritated prostate. The symptoms are burning when urinating and urgency. Prostatitis has several causes. Only a visit with your doctor can determine the correct treatment.

For men over 50 years of age, the most common prostate problem is BPH, or benign prostatic hypertrophy. In laymen’s terms, the prostate enlarges, causing symptoms such as frequency, urgency, a weak stream, and leaking. There are medical and surgical treatments available. Again, only a consultation with your physician can determine the best course of treatment.

One-fifth of the men in the USA will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at one point in their lives, and yet only 3% will die from it. Prostate cancer is generally a slow-growing cancer, so it is more easily treated than many other cancers. The screening for prostate cancer is a blood test for PSA (prostate specific antigen) and a digital rectal exam performed by your doctor. The American Cancer Society recommends that men over 50, and those over 45 with risk factors, be screened with a PSA test. Please ask your doctor if testing is right for you. Although there are several herbs touted as good for prostate health, there are no research studies indicating there is anything you can do to prevent prostate cancer.

Testicular cancer accounts for only 1% percent of all cancers in men. Testicular cancer occurs most often in men between the ages of 20 and 39, and is the most common form of cancer in men between the ages of 15 and 34. There are several factors which increase a man’s risk of this disease, including having an undescended testicle, or a history of such, and having a family history of testicular cancer. Since men in this age group often don’t have regular physical exams by a physician, self-examination is an important method of cancer detection. If you have a lump, swelling, pain or discomfort in your testicles, please see a physician. As we all witnessed through Lance Armstrong’s experience, even testicular cancer that has spread can be successfully treated.

And finally, I will mention erectile dysfunction (ED), which used to be known as impotence. Many different conditions can lead to ED. Most causes of ED, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and alcohol and drug abuse, are health problems which also affect other organs. These conditions can all cause damage to blood vessels. Anything that is bad for your heart is also bad for your sexual health. Some prescription drugs can cause ED. However, never stop taking a prescribed drug without first consulting your doctor. Your doctor may be able to change your drug treatment.

In summary, please do not be shy about discussing your personal health with your physician. There are treatment options available that can improve the quality or extend the quantity of your life.