Men’s Health Month is a time to reflect on lifestyle choices we make and the way those choices impact the quality of our lives long term.

As we age, our bodies change. Men should begin having regular annual exams around age 30 and yearly after 50. It is important to review family history, cardiovascular risk, assess dietary needs, and to adjust exercise routines over time.

“I always encourage patients to get their annual exam and to have their blood checked,” says Dr. Rory Johnson, who specializes in Family Medicine at DCMC Fish Creek Clinic. “I want to be able to be ahead of the game if something may be off.”

Dr. Johnson says that while in the past it may have been true that men visit the doctor less often than they should, at his practice, he is noticing men of all ages scheduling annual exams, particularly younger men. “Preventative Medicine is a large part of Family Medicine, so getting in for yearly check-up, lab testing, and preventative screenings is key.”

In addition to scheduling annual exams as recommended, Dr. Johnson notes that there are three simple life changes one can make to improve overall health: diet, exercise and weight loss. “It is as easy as that and also as hard as that,” he explains, “I really preach in office to eat more vegetables and fruit, as well as increasing fiber intake and decreasing red meat consumption. One should exercise for at least 150 minutes a week to make a difference. If you do the first 2 things, then weight loss can and should follow.”

Men’s health takes work! To schedule your annual exam or to make an appointment with your primary care provider, call Door County Medical Center at 920-743-5566.