The importance of men’s health

men’s health


Men’s Health Month is celebrated across the country in June.  The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to promote the prevention of health problems by encouraging early detection and the treatment of illnesses amongst men.  This month is dedicated to educating people on what can be done to improve health in boys & men.  Some often also delay seeing a doctor for symptoms of any health problems and put off routine check-ups. 




It is very important for men to understand the risk factors of their overall health.  Many health conditions can be prevented or treated if found early.  The most common health problems which affect men are:  prostate cancer, testicular cancer, colon cancer, high blood pressure and heart disease.  Below are some of the risk factors of these health problems:

Prostate Cancer: 

  • Excessive alcohol intake.
  • Having a diet which is high in fat and low in fiber.
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  • Being overweight.
  • Lack of exercise.

Testicular Cancer:

  • Abnormal testicular development.
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  • Family history.

Colon Cancer:

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  • Radiation therapy for cancer.
  • Inflammatory intestinal conditions.
  • Getting older.

High blood pressure: 

  • Too much sodium in your diet.
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  • Not being physically active.
  • Family history of high blood pressure.

Heart disease:

  • High cholesterol.
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  • A diet which is high in fat.
  • High blood pressure.

Gert Coetzee, Pharmacist and Diet pioneer who founded The Diet Everyone Talks About advises men to start becoming proactive when it comes to their health and well-being.  Below he gives some hints & tips on how men can maintain their health.

  • Try eating a healthy, balanced diet incorporating vegetables and lean protein.
  • Exercise regularly – being active helps you release endorphins, helping you feel good and fresh.
  • Make sure you maintain a healthy weight because men who are overweight often have low testosterone levels.
  • Take some time to find a good stress reliever. You can go for a run/jog, go to the gym, play a sport of your choice or go hiking.
  • Pay attention to your alcohol consumption because the amount you drink can have a serious effect on your health.
  • Visit your doctor for regular blood tests and physical examinations which can help detect health problems before they become major.
  • Eat natural anti-inflammatory foods such as fish, ginger, green leafy vegetables and drink green tea.
  • Maintain normal cholesterol levels by having a diet that is high in fiber and low in fat.
  • If you get injured, allow your body to heal before getting back into being physically active.
  • Regular sleep and drinking a lot of water can work wonders for your body.