doctor shot in arm
Health and Fitness

Men need to ‘man up’

A recently released survey by the Cleveland Clinic found more than half of American men don’t go for an annual physical and that could lead to serious health  problems.
That’s why American Family Care, an urgent and primary care provider,  created the “MAN UP” Check Up.  It’s to encourage local guys to put down the remote, turn off ESPN and visit the darn doc’s office!



The American Family Care “MAN UP” Check Up:  

  • Blood Pressure
  • Weight
  • BMI
  • Cholesterol
  • Temperature
  • Oxygen Level
  • Diabetes risks.

5 Simple Health Tests Men Can Do At Home  

  1. Ticker Test –  How strong is your heart? The Centers for Disease Control Data found 89% of sudden cardiac events occur in men.   You can easily check your pulse while at rest.
  •  Place 2 fingers, not using your thumb, on your wrist, press lightly until you feel a pulse.  Count your pulse for 10 seconds and multiple by six. 
  •  A normal pulse or heart rate for a man should be between 60 and 100 a minute. 
  1. Spare Tire Gauge –  Belly fat produces hormones that could create heart or diabetes issues.  Wrap a tape measure around your waist at belly button level.  If you measure more than 37 inches, you’re at risk for potentially serious health problems.
  1. Under Pressure – The National Stroke Association estimates one out of three men who have high blood pressure don’t know it.  You should always see a doctor for an official reading, but men are encouraged to buy an easy-to-use blood pressure monitor at a pharmacy and check their own blood pressure.  There could be trouble if your high number is consistently above 120 or your low number is consistently above 80.  Repeat every few weeks.
  1. Critical  Cancer Check – Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among men ages 20 – 35.  After the shower when you’re relaxed, check testicles for lumps or changes in size. Repeat this about once a month.
  1. Oral Health Exam – The American Cancer Society reports 34,000 people will get oral cancer this year- most of them men.  It’s twice as common in men as in women.  It shows up as a sore or lump that doesn’t heal on the lips or mouth.  To check for tumors, open wide and run a finger around and under your tongue.  Wide or red patches could also be a sign of trouble.