June is Men’s Health Month. Temecula Valley Hospital is committed to providing the men of the area with the best healthcare available. Unfortunately, men are less healthy and have shorter life expectancy than women. There are many reason s for this. Men are more likely to go long periods of time without going to the doctor. Men are also less likely to embrace preventative health practices, and more likely to be involved in risky health behaviors. Because of poor health habits, lack of health insurance, failure to seek medical attention, and dangerous occupations, men live sicker and die younger than women.
Men’s health issues are connected. Managing diabetes can lead to a healthier life. Parenting and fatherhood have proven to guide many men to a more fulfilling lifestyle for both themselves and their families. Obesity can affect the cardiovascular system.
Over their lifetime, 50% of men will get cancer at least once, while only a third of women will get the disease. Over 700,000 men are diagnosed with cancer each year and close to 300,000 men die from it. The worst part is that most of these cancers and deaths are preventable. The two keys to beating cancer are early detection and reducing risk, something men are not known for doing.
Another area that men neglect their health is in mental health issues. Even though women are twice as likely to be diagnosed with a mental health issue, men are over four times more likely than women to commit suicide. Depression is under-diagnosed in men.
Temecula Valley Hospital hosts a community education program, Medical Gold Minds, on the second Thursday of the month in the Olive Branch Café on the first floor of the hospital. This month, Dr. Jerry Hizon will be discussing men’s health issues and why “Men Don’t Have to Die Young.” The June 11th presentation begins at 6:00 pm. No reservations are required, and light refreshments will be served. TVH invites the community to learn more about this important issue.
Temecula Valley Hospital brings advanced technology, innovative programs, patient-centered and family sensitive care to area residents. As the region’s newest acute care facility, the hospital features 140 private patient rooms, 24 hour a day emergency care, advanced cardiac and stroke care, orthopedics and general medical care, and surgical specialties.