November is Men’s Health Awareness Month, also known as Movember, a time dedicated to raising awareness about men’s physical and mental health.
Men are often less likely to schedule routine medical appointments and may wait until something feels wrong before seeking care. Unfortunately, many common health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers, can develop without noticeable symptoms.
The good news? Taking a proactive approach to your health can help prevent disease, identify concerns early, and improve your quality of life.
Whether you’re overdue for a checkup, looking to improve your lifestyle, or simply wondering which screenings you need, November is a great time to make your health a priority.
What Health Concerns Should Men Know About?
While health risks vary depending on age, genetics, and lifestyle, several conditions deserve particular attention.
Heart Disease
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death among men in the United States.
High blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity can all increase your risk. Many of these risk factors cause no symptoms, which is why preventive care is so important.
Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and appropriate management of blood pressure and cholesterol can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cancer
Prostate, colorectal, and lung cancers are among the important cancers affecting men.
The encouraging news is that screening can help detect certain cancers early, sometimes before symptoms develop. Colorectal cancer screening can even prevent some cancers by identifying and removing precancerous polyps.
Not every cancer has a recommended screening test, and not every man needs the same screenings. Your age, family history, smoking history, and other risk factors help determine which tests are appropriate.
Diabetes and High Blood Pressure
Both diabetes and high blood pressure can develop gradually without obvious symptoms.
Over time, these conditions can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other complications.
Routine blood pressure checks and appropriate blood sugar testing can help identify concerns before complications develop.
Sleep and Sexual Health
Sleep and sexual health are important parts of overall wellness, but they are sometimes overlooked during routine medical visits.
Persistent fatigue, loud snoring, or feeling unrested despite adequate sleep may indicate an underlying sleep disorder, such as obstructive sleep apnea.
Similarly, erectile dysfunction can sometimes be an early sign of cardiovascular disease, particularly when associated with other risk factors.
These concerns are common and worth discussing with your physician. They may provide valuable clues about your overall health.
Men’s Mental Health: It’s Time to Talk About It
One of the most important messages of Movember is that mental health is just as important as physical health.
Men may be less likely to discuss emotional struggles or seek professional support. Expectations to remain strong, independent, or self-reliant can sometimes make it difficult to acknowledge when something isn’t right.
Depression and anxiety also don’t always look the way people expect.
For some men, symptoms may include:
- Increased irritability, frustration, or anger
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling motivated
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Increased alcohol or substance use
- Persistent fatigue or unexplained physical symptoms
These changes are not necessarily signs of a mental health condition, but they are worth paying attention to.
Men also account for a disproportionately high number of suicide deaths in the United States, making awareness, connection, and access to support especially important.
You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to ask for help.
Talking with a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare professional can be an important first step. Mental health conversations belong in routine primary care, just like discussions about blood pressure, exercise, or sleep.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional crisis, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
What Health Screenings Should Men Consider?
Preventive screenings are designed to identify potential health problems before symptoms develop.
However, screening recommendations are not one-size-fits-all. Your physician should consider your age, medical history, family history, and individual risk factors when determining which tests are appropriate.
Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke.
All adults should have their blood pressure checked periodically. Cholesterol testing helps assess cardiovascular risk and guide decisions about lifestyle changes or medication when appropriate.
Diabetes
Screening for type 2 diabetes is generally recommended for adults ages 35 to 70 who have overweight or obesity. Earlier screening may be appropriate for individuals with additional risk factors, including a family history of diabetes.
Colorectal Cancer
For most adults at average risk, colorectal cancer screening begins at age 45.
Screening options include colonoscopy and certain stool-based tests. The appropriate test and screening interval depend on your individual circumstances and preferences.
People with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain medical conditions may need to begin screening earlier.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer screening involves a blood test called prostate-specific antigen (PSA).
Unlike some other cancer screenings, PSA testing is not automatically recommended for every man. Screening has potential benefits, but it can also lead to false-positive results, additional testing, and treatment of cancers that may never have caused harm.
The American Cancer Society recommends discussing screening around age 50 for men at average risk, age 45 for men at higher risk, including Black men and those with a close relative diagnosed at a younger age, and age 40 for men with multiple close relatives affected at an early age.
Your physician can help you understand the potential benefits and limitations so you can make an informed decision.
Lung Cancer
Annual low-dose CT screening is recommended for certain adults ages 50 to 80 who have at least a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years.
A pack-year is calculated by multiplying the number of packs smoked per day by the number of years smoked.
Other Important Screenings
Depending on your age and medical history, your physician may also recommend screening for:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysm, particularly in men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked
- Depression and other mental health concerns
- Hepatitis C and HIV
- Other sexually transmitted infections
- Additional conditions based on your personal and family history
The goal isn’t to order every available test. It’s to choose the right screenings for you.
Five Healthy Habits That Make a Meaningful Difference
Preventive care extends far beyond bloodwork and cancer screenings. Your everyday habits play a major role in your long-term health.
1. Move Your Body Regularly
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week, along with strength training at least twice weekly.
Walking, cycling, swimming, resistance training, and recreational sports all count.
The best exercise routine is one you enjoy and can maintain consistently.
2. Focus on Nutrition
You don’t need a perfect diet to support good health.
Prioritize vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Limit highly processed foods, excess added sugars, and processed meats.
Small changes, such as adding a vegetable to lunch or preparing more meals at home, can add up over time.
3. Prioritize Sleep
Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
Poor sleep can affect mood, concentration, blood pressure, metabolism, and overall well-being.
If you regularly snore loudly, wake up gasping, or feel exhausted despite getting enough sleep, talk with your physician about whether further evaluation is appropriate.
4. Avoid Tobacco and Be Mindful of Alcohol
Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take to improve your health, regardless of your age or how long you’ve smoked.
Alcohol can also affect sleep, blood pressure, mental health, and cancer risk. When it comes to alcohol, less is better for your health.
5. Make Time for Your Mental Well-Being
Maintaining social connections, spending time outdoors, participating in enjoyable activities, and finding healthy ways to manage stress all contribute to your overall well-being.
If you’re struggling emotionally, don’t hesitate to seek support.
Taking care of your mental health is not separate from taking care of your physical health. Both matter.
Why Having a Primary Care Physician Matters
One of the most valuable things you can do for your health is establish an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician.
Preventive care isn’t simply about completing an annual checklist of tests.
It’s about having someone who understands your medical history, knows your goals, recognizes changes in your health, and helps you make informed decisions over time.
A primary care visit is an opportunity to discuss your cardiovascular risk, family history, exercise habits, nutrition, sleep, mental health, and any symptoms or concerns you’ve been putting off.
Whether you’re experiencing erectile dysfunction, struggling with stress, noticing changes in your energy, or simply wanting to improve your overall health, these conversations deserve time and attention.
You should never feel rushed, dismissed, or uncomfortable asking questions about your health.
Women’s Role in Men’s Health Awareness Month
Although November focuses on men’s health, the message is important for everyone.
Do you have a husband, partner, father, brother, son, or friend who has been putting off a medical appointment?
Sometimes a thoughtful conversation or gentle reminder can encourage someone to take that first step.
Consider asking the men in your life when they last had their blood pressure checked, whether they’re up to date on recommended cancer screenings, or simply how they’ve been feeling lately.
And remember, mental health conversations matter too. Creating a space where someone feels comfortable sharing their struggles without judgment can make a meaningful difference.
Encouragement is valuable, but so is respecting someone’s autonomy and allowing them to make their own healthcare decisions.
This November, Take One Step Toward Better Health
You don’t need to make dramatic changes overnight to improve your health.
Maybe your first step is scheduling an overdue medical appointment, starting a regular walking routine, improving your sleep habits, or having an honest conversation about your mental health.
Whatever you choose, remember that small, consistent actions can have a meaningful impact over time.
Your health deserves attention before something goes wrong.
At Active Health DPC, we believe exceptional healthcare starts with listening, building meaningful relationships, and taking the time to understand each person’s unique health needs and goals.
Our approach emphasizes prevention, open communication, and working together to support your long-term health and well-being.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this content does not establish a physician patient relationship with Active Health DPC or its physicians. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific health needs. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical care.
