The Health 4Cast Series | The Power of Prevention: How Men Can Take Charge of Their Health

Many men are known for showing up for everyone else, but when it comes to their own health, too many wait until something feels wrong before seeking care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, men are 32% less likely than women to visit a doctor within a given year, and only 40% seek care when they believe they have a serious medical concern.

For this edition of The Health 4Cast, Men’s Health Month is a reminder that prevention, awareness and proactive care can make a lasting difference. Regular checkups, healthy habits and open conversations with your healthcare team can help identify concerns early and support a healthier future.

We spoke with Dr. John Yokitis, medical director at UF Health Family Medicine – Kernan Square, about common health concerns men face and the steps they can take today to prioritize their well-being.

What health screenings should men prioritize, and at what age should they start?

Prostate Cancer

Men should be aware of their family histories. For any man who has prostate cancer in a first degree relative, particularly his father, or men of African descent, annual screening should begin between ages 40-45. This involves having a blood test known as a PSA performed. Symptoms of prostate cancer can often be similar to symptoms of the typical age-related prostate changes men experience, so establishing care with a primary physician to discuss screening is very important. For men without family history or symptoms of prostate cancer, a discussion and shared decision-making process regarding prostate cancer screening should start by age 50.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is unfortunately being seen in younger patients, so the recommendation for screening now starts at age 45. There are a variety of screening methods, but colonoscopy remains the gold standard. For patients with colon cancer in a first degree relative, colonoscopies should be started 10 years prior to that relative’s age at diagnosis.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer screening involves a CT of the chest for those who have smoked 20 pack years and are 50 and older, or those who have quit less than 15 years ago. Screening for abdominal aneurysm is a one-time test, usually an ultrasound, for any man who has ever smoked. This should occur at age 65.

Hepatitis C

Screening for hepatitis C should be performed once for everyone, and a discussion regarding screening for HIV or other sexually transmitted infections should occur based on the individual’s risk.

General Annual Screenings

Men should be screened annually for depression and anxiety. Blood pressure should be monitored, as should total weight. For any man meeting the criteria for overweight (BMI >25) or obese (BMI >30), screenings for diabetes and high cholesterol should be done. An annual exam is a prime opportunity to do these screenings.

2. How can men better prioritize mental health while balancing work and family responsibilities?

Being aware of one’s feelings and levels of stress is imperative. Men need to admit to themselves when they are struggling with their mental health.

One easy intervention men can work into their daily lives to prioritize mental health and balance their daily responsibilities includes setting aside 30 minutes each day for themselves. During this time, men should read, pray or meditate, exercise or perform some activity they enjoy. Limit screen time as social media often provides triggers for increased stress or unreliable information.

Spend time building up relationships with family or friends. Loneliness can negatively impact mental and physical health. Most importantly, men should not be ashamed to seek help when needed. There are many resources available. Counseling is available at many primary care offices. Online virtual counseling is another great option. The stigma of mental health issues needs to be removed.

3. What are the biggest health risk men should watch for?

Heart disease remains the biggest health risk for men. There are many ways to ensure better heart health.

• Exercise 30 minutes 5 times a week, or at least 150 minutes per week. This can be simply going for a walk, but it needs to be at challenging pace.
• Follow a Mediterranean diet with green leafy vegetables, olive oil and healthy fats, like fish, nuts and seeds. Protein is important, so include baked chicken, turkey, etc. I don’t think it is realistic to completely avoid pork or red meat, but these should be eaten modestly.
• Avoid smoking tobacco products. There are many available methods to help quit. Limit alcohol intake to no more than 1-2 drinks per day.

With the growing popularity regarding supplements and hormone replacements, especially testosterone, it is crucial to discuss with your primary physician before starting any treatments. There can be adverse effects if these are not properly prescribed and managed.

4. How can men become more proactive about their health?

Once a man is in his 30s, but preferably earlier, he should start seeing his primary physician for an annual exam. This will provide him with the opportunity to have his blood pressure, weight and other metrics assessed. He will be able to discuss healthy lifestyle and recommended preventive screenings. I would also recommend seeing a dentist twice a year and having an eye exam once a year. I recommend taking a daily multivitamin as well.