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A few lifestyle changes help men feel great and live longer

DUPAGE COUNTY—The DuPage County Health Department reminds men during Men's Health Week (June 11-17) that they can make a few lifestyle changes to get healthy and stay that way.

Statistics show that men die earlier than women, but more than half of these early deaths can be prevented. The Health Department recommends these changes for men:

• Add more fruits and vegetables to your diet.

• Keep serving sizes in check; watch your intake of salt, fat and empty calories.

• Get enough sleep.

• Protect yourself from injuries at work, home or play.

• Get at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days.

• Quit smoking.

• Lose weight if you are overweight.

• If you drink, do so in moderation.

Men tend to go to the doctor only when they are already ill or experiencing problems, but an annual exam can prevent serious health problems later. Follow these recommendations:

Screenings

• Weight and Body Mass Index: Every one to three years.

• Blood pressure: At least every two years.

• Cholesterol: Ages 20 to 35 should be tested every five years. If you are over 35 or at high risk, talk to your doctor about frequency.

• Diabetes: Those with high blood pressure should be screened regularly. Others, especially those who are overweight or have additional risk factors, should consider screening every three years.

• Prostate cancer: Ages 50 and older, discuss the benefits and risks of screening with your doctor.

• Colon cancer: Beginning at age 50, colonoscopy every 10 years, OR flexible sigmoidoscopy every five years OR fecal occult blood test annually.

• Hearing: Beginning at age 65. Talk to your doctor about frequency.

• Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm: Once between ages 65 and 75 if you have ever smoked.

Immunizations

• Tetanus/Diphtheria/Pertussis Booster (Tdap): Every 10 years.

• Influenza (flu): Annually.

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR): One or two doses for men ages 19-49.

• Varicella (Chicken Pox): Two doses.

• Herpes Zoster (Shingles): One dose at age 60 or older.

• Pneumococcal (Pneumonia): One dose at age 65 or older.

In addition, if you are between the ages of 45 and 79, talk with your doctor about the benefits and risks of aspirin use.

For more information on the DuPage County Health Department, follow us on Twitter @DuPageHD or become a fan on Facebook.

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