Rural Health Inc. encourages men to prioritize preventive care during Men’s Health Month

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SOUTHERN ILLINOIS (KBSI) — Rural Health Inc. is encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their health during National Men’s Health Month in June.

The organization is urging men to schedule regular checkups, discuss physical and mental health concerns with their health care providers and seek preventive care to improve long-term health outcomes.

“When it comes to medical care, men have traditionally gone to the doctor less often than women,” said Shawnna Rhine, director of public relations for Rural Health Inc. “But skipping routine physicals and ignoring early warning signs allows minor treatable conditions to become severe.”

According to Rural Health Inc., only about 60% of men receive annual physical exams, while more than 40% visit a doctor only when they believe they have a serious medical condition.

Health officials recommend routine screenings and preventive care, including blood pressure checks, cholesterol screenings and heart health evaluations. Men are also encouraged to discuss screenings for prostate, colorectal, lung and skin cancers with their providers.

The organization also highlighted the importance of mental health care, stress management, regular exercise, adequate sleep and maintaining a balanced diet.

Rural Health Inc. serves Johnson, Massac and Union counties and is designated as a federally qualified health center.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 618-833-4471 or visit Rural Health Inc.’s website.