In recognition of Men’s Health Week, we’ll look at some of the health risks men face and what individuals can do to reduce those risks.
It’s estimated that roughly half of men will develop cancer at some point during their lives.[1] While that may sound grim, there is good news as well: there is a lot you can do to improve your odds of avoiding or surviving a cancer diagnosis. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) states that nearly half of the most common cancers can be prevented by taking the following simple steps:[2]
If you are faced with a cancer diagnosis, detecting and treating it early can help you have the best possible odds of survival. Get regular checkups, and discuss your cancer risk and any symptoms you may notice with your doctor. Symptoms of cancer vary widely and can resemble symptoms of common ailments, but be sure to mention anything that is new or unusual. Some symptoms that could indicate cancer include[4]
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) includes a variety of conditions that affect the heart and blood vessels. The CDC reports that heart disease is the number one killer of men in the U.S., causing 1 in 4 male deaths, and half of men who die suddenly of heart disease don’t experience prior symptoms. While not all risk factors may be within your control, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing heart disease by avoiding those you can. Known risk factors include[5]
Discuss your risk of cardiovascular disease with your doctor. If your risk is elevated, then you may be advised to undergo CT cardiac calcium scoring. This is an imaging exam that allows a radiologist to determine the level of calcified plaque buildup in the coronary arteries. This information helps your doctor better assess your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other CVD-related health events. Additionally, some research has shown that it can provide insight into your risk of other dangerous conditions, including cancer, lung disease, and kidney disease.[7]
Iowa Radiology uses state-of-the-art technology in the hands of highly trained technologists and radiologists to aid in the early detection and treatment of potentially dangerous health conditions. Click the link below to learn about CT exams, including cardiac calcium scoring.
[1] "Cancers." Men’s Health Resource Center. Men’s Health Network, 7 June 2104. Accessed 8 May 2018.
"Prevent Nearly 50% of the Most Common Cancers." AICR.org. American Institute for Cancer Research, 20 Jan 2015. Accessed 8 May 2018.
[3] "Cancers." Men’s Health Resource Center. Men’s Health Network, 7 June 2104. Accessed 8 May 2018.
[4] Ibid.
[5] "Men and Heart Disease Fact Sheet." CDC.gov. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 23 Aug 2017. Accessed 8 May 2018.
[6] "Avoid these foods for a healthier heart." Harvard Health. Harvard University, 13 Dec 2011. Accessed 8 May 2018.
[7] "High coronary calcium score may signal increased risk of cancer, kidney and lung disease." ScienceDaily, 9 March 2016. Accessed 9 May 2018.
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