We have combined a list of proactive steps for guys to help reduce certain health risks. And because Father’s Day happens to fall at the end of Men’s Health Week (June 13 through 19), we’ve added some gift ideas to help keep him healthy and happy.
Preventative Care Is Key to Reducing Health Risk
Men are less likely than women to seek medical help for any symptoms they might be having. Unfortunately, societal pressure to “be tough” can lead to men and boys avoiding medical advice or treatment. Fortunately, observances like Men’s Health Month, male support groups, and greater awareness about the benefit of open communication are changing how many men and boys view health issues.
Healthy Father’s Day Gift Ideas
Now that you’re armed with important information about men’s health, here are a few suggestions for healthy Father’s Day gifts.
Gym Membership
Look for a fitness center that’s convenient, affordable, and offers the type of activities that your father would enjoy. Most gyms offer a free guest pass to try before you buy.
Round of Golf
If your dad plays golf, treat him to a round at his favorite course. Or, get him a tee time at a place he’s always wanted to try.
Plan an Active Outing
Invite the whole family for a walk or hike at a nearby park or wilderness area. Pack healthy snacks and plenty of water.
Make a Playlist
Put together a playlist using your favorite streaming service (or CDs if you’re old school) that he can listen to while walking, running, or just chilling.
Encourage His Culinary Talent
Check your local community college, continuing ed, or even a gourmet food shop for cooking lessons. Who knows? Your dad could become the next celebrity chef!
Preventative Healthcare for Him
Proactive healthcare is essential for better health and wellness. Early screening, regular checkups, and awareness can help reduce these risks. Encourage the men in your life – dads, husbands, brothers, granddads, and cousins – to seek appropriate preventative measures like the following.
Live Heart Healthy
Heart disease is the number one cause of death for men and women in America. While you can’t control certain risk factors – aging and family history – help your dad stay healthy and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.
- If you smoke, stop.
- Get plenty of appropriate and safe exercise for your age and health.
- Manage stress through mediation and other healthy options.
Cancer Screenings
Colorectal cancer is more common in men, but it’s the second most deadly cancer for both men and women in America.
- Regular screenings of the colon and rectum help detect cancerous cells and growths.
- Ninety percent of individuals who detected and treated colorectal cancer in its early stages are still living five years later.
As men age, so does their risk for prostate cancer.
- A simple in-office exam and test can detect warning signs of prostate cancer.
- The sooner prostate cancer is discovered and treated, the better chance of remission or recovery.
Skin is our body’s largest organ, yet nearly 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with some form of skin cancer every day.
- Always wear sunscreen and limit sun exposure from 10 am to 2 pm, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Schedule yearly screenings with a dermatologist to check for unusual moles and lesions.
African-American men have the highest lung cancer rates, and men overall are at greater risk, especially smokers.
- Stop using tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and vape pens.
- See your doctor if you smoke (or used to) and notice these symptoms.