DR GEHAD'S TIPS FOR MEN'S HEALTH

Dr. Gehad El Gergawy
Consultant Cardiologist at our Cardiology Clinic in Dubai

Taking charge of your own good health is important at any age – and it’s never too late to start developing healthier habits. Like women, men need to have regular visits with the doctor, take steps to manage stress, make nutritious food choices, and engage in physical activity.

Regardless of your age or general health, if you’re ready to focus on a healtier you, the following men’s health tips checklist provides a foundation from which to begin:

1. Have regular checkups – even if you feel okay.
One of the best ways that men can promote their own good health is to have a physical or wellness check eachyear – regardless or age or health concerns. Besides a general once-over, the physical should include cholesterol, glucose, and blood pressure evaluations.

2. Schedule an appointment with your doctor when something doesn’t seem right.
Remember that many significant health issues begin as minor problems that could have been prevented or better managed if they had been detected early. Rather than thinking it’s just a matter of “toughing it out”, invest in your future good health by discussing your health concerns with your doctor.

3. Know your family history – and share it with your doctor.
If your dad or other family members have a history of hypertension, heart disease, diabetes or other chronic health conditions, you may be at higher risk for developing those conditions yourself. Your doctor can help you develop an action plan to minimize those risks and increase your chances of early detection.

4. Get some exercise.
Ideally, you should exercise at least 30 minutes a day. But if you’re having difficulty squeezing in a workout, remember that even a brisk 20-minute walk a few times a week with your spouse, or regular play outside with your kids or grandkids, can provide heart healthy and stress-relieving benefits.

5. Stop smoking.
Ask your doctor to help you develop a plan of action, then pick a “quit date” and stick with it.