By: Jerry P. Abraham, MD MPH CMQ
Photo: Volodymyr Tverdokhlib | Dreamstime.com
Now that PRIDE month’s over, it’s time for us to get back to business as usual – taking care of ourselves. Even though we were all celebrating PRIDE, June was also Men’s Health Month.
Why Men’s Health Matters
Men’s Health Month is all about raising awareness of health problems that can affect men and how we can prevent them. For LGBTQ+ people, there are extra challenges. Sometimes, we face discrimination or don’t get the right care from doctors who don’t understand our particular health needs. Now’s a great time to take charge of our health and make sure we get the care we deserve!
Routine Health Check-Ups
One of the best things we can do for our health is to see a doctor regularly – at least once per year. Even if we feel fine, it’s important to get check-ups to catch any problems early.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Find a Gay Friendly Doctor: Look for doctors who understand and respect LGBTQ+ issues. They will make you feel comfortable and give you better care.
Be Honest: Tell your doctor about your lifestyle and activities, including your sexual orientation and any health concerns you have. This helps them give you the best advice and treatment.
Preventive Health Tips
Preventive health means taking steps to prevent problems before they happen. Here are some tips for staying healthy:
Healthy Eating: Eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid too much sugar and junk food!
Exercise: Stay active! Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise most days. This could be anything from walking, dancing, or playing a sport you love. Let’s dance!
Mental Health: Taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies. Talk to friends or a therapist if you’re feeling stressed or down. Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Health Screenings
Certain health checks are especially important for men:
Blood Pressure: High blood pressure can lead to serious problems like heart disease. Get it checked regularly.
Blood Sugar: High blood sugar can lead to diabetes. Diabetes has many complications including increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, blindness, kidney problems, and neuropathy.
Cholesterol: High cholesterol can also cause heart issues. Ask your doctor to check your cholesterol levels.
Cancer Screenings: Regular screenings for prostate, testicular, and colorectal cancers can save lives. Talk to your doctor about when to start these tests.
Special Considerations for LGBTQ+ People: As people who identify LGBTQ+, we might face unique health challenges. Here are some extra tips:
HIV and STIs: Regular testing for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial. Use protection like condoms to reduce your risk.
Vaccinations: Make sure you’re up-to-date on vaccines, especially for hepatitis A and B, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Mental Health Support: Discrimination and stigma can take a toll on mental health. Find LGBTQ+ support groups or mental health professionals who understand your experiences.
Sexual Health: Men’s sexual health is intricately connected to their physical and emotional health. When we are experiencing an emotionally challenging period full of an overwhelming amount of stress, it can not only take a toll on us physically, but it can also impact our life in the bedroom. A less-acknowledged but integral element to maintaining a healthy sexual lifestyle is to emphasize the importance of internal awareness and communication between yourself and your partners.
Erectile dysfunction (ED), for example, can sometimes be an early indicator of cardiovascular problems. Addressing sexual health concerns can lead to the detection and management of underlying medical conditions, potentially improving overall health outcomes. Talk to your doctor because there may be treatments that can help you!
Conclusion: Men’s Health Month is a great time to focus on our well-being. By getting regular check-ups, eating well, staying active, and paying attention to our mental health, we can lead healthier, happier lives. Remember, it’s important to find healthcare providers who respect and understand the LGBTQ+ community. Taking these steps not only helps us feel our best but also shows that we value ourselves and our health. Let’s take charge of our health and support each other on this journey!
Remember, you can visit DR. ABRAHAM & the JWCH-WESLEY STREET MEDICINE TEAM every Sunday night at TEMPO NIGHT CLUB! So come out and get all your LGBTQIA+ medical needs met and health questions answered!