Dads, Check This Out!

This Father’s Day, forget the tie and after-shave. Give your favorite guy the gift of knowledge instead by talking to him about staying healthy. Men can live longer, healthier lives by taking a few simple steps:

Physical activity. Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity five or more days a week. 

Healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and maintain a healthy weight. 

Colorectal screening. Beginning at age 50, talk to your doctor about getting tested for colon cancer. If colon cancer is found in the earliest stages, the survival rate is 90%. And you can even avoid colon cancer altogether by getting tested!

Prostate cancer. If you’re 50 or older, discuss testing options with your doctor. African American men and men who have a history of prostate cancer should begin testing at 45. 

No smoking. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in men and women. Prevent it by not smoking or using tobacco products. 

Skin cancer. When detected in its earliest stages and treated properly, skin cancer is highly curable. Always use sunscreen and limit or avoid exposure to ultraviolet rays during the midday hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Regular doctor visits. A routine physical is the perfect time to ask your doctor other ways to remain healthy. 

Happy Father’s Day!

Source: American Cancer Society’s Because We Care, June 2006