Men should also be health-conscious

Medical experts say that majority of men shy away from seeking medical help for health disorders simply because they regard health as merely a "women issue." Apathy to their own health and reluctance to see a physician until a problem becomes very severe are, indeed, very common with men.

Statistics show that men have lower life expectancy than women. According to recent studies conducted by the Department of Health, men live on an average of 66.03 years only as compared to women’s 71.28 years. Men’s carefree attitude, lack of time and attention, higher level of pain tolerance and uneasiness with diagnostic exams are some of the factors that explain why men are being outlived by women. Thus, men are more vulnerable to serious illnesses such as heart disease and cancers.

An important health concern often ignored by men is prostate cancer which refers to a group of abnormal cells in the prostate. This disease often causes no symptoms at all until it reaches an advanced stage or has already spread outside the gland.

Progressive prostate disorder may cause pain or a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, a decrease in the size and force of urine flow, blood in the urine, and continuing lower back and pelvic discomfort.

If a male experiences these symptoms, he should immediately undergo a physical exam and laboratory tests that include digital rectal exam, urine test to check for blood or infection, and a blood test to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

Healthway offers medical tests and screenings that can detect prostate cancer and other health problems of men. Visit Healthway Medical Clinics on Ayala Avenue, Greenbelt, in Binondo, Manila and at SM City, Alabang Town Center, Festival Mall and Laguna Technopark. Call 893-7910, 893-7920 or 893-7940 for more details.