Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare reminds men to seek preventative health screenings

MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 7, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare encourages men to take steps to improve their overall physical and mental wellness by scheduling routine health exams.

The Memphis-based healthcare system's 2022 Community Needs Health Assessment revealed heart disease and cancer as leading causes of death in both DeSoto County, Miss., and Shelby County, Tenn. Mental health ranked as a top community health concern followed closely by obesity and diabetes.

"Maintaining normal cholesterol and blood pressure levels, along with a healthy weight, are some of the most important ways anyone can reduce their risk of heart attack, stroke and so many other medical problems," said primary care physician Christopher D. Wright, MD, with Methodist Medical Group on Union Avenue in the Memphis Medical District. "Additional testing can sometimes include HIV, testosterone and thyroid, as well as screening for skin, colon and prostate cancers."

Methodist Medical Group primary care practices also offer integrated behavioral health resources that include mental health screenings and licensed counselors.

While certain risk factors cannot be changed, such as getting older and genetics, many chronic health conditions are preventable with physical activity, a balanced diet and other lifestyle changes. Simple and routine screenings can detect issues early on, when treatment is most effective in adverting or managing long-term illnesses.

"Perhaps the most powerful benefit of annual wellness visits is the ability to identify an issue before serious problems arise. During June, which is men's health awareness month, I challenge those without a primary care physician to find an established provider and schedule a routine wellness visit," said Wright.

In general, guidelines for preventative screenings for men include:

Blood pressure

• Starting at 18, blood pressure should be checked every two years.

Cholesterol

• Starting at 18, men should have their cholesterol checked every five years.
• Your family history or age may require more frequent testing.

Colorectal cancer

• The American Cancer Society recommends regular screening beginning at 45 years old.

Diabetes

• If you are at least 45 years of age, the American Diabetes Association recommends diabetes screening.
• If your body mass index is above 25, you should be screened earlier.

Men should talk with their primary care provider about appropriate screenings. To schedule an appointment, please call 901-721-1200.

About Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare

Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has been caring for patients and families regardless of their ability to pay for more than 100 years. Guided by roots in the United Methodist Church and founded in 1918 to help meet the growing need for quality healthcare in the greater Memphis area, MLH has grown from one hospital into a comprehensive healthcare system with 13,000 Associates supporting six hospitals, including nationally ranked Le Bonheur Children's Hospital, ambulatory surgery centers, outpatient facilities, hospice residence and physician and specialty practices serving communities across the Mid-South. From transplants and advanced heart procedures to expert neurology services and compassionate cancer care, MLH offers clinical expertise with a focus on improving every life we touch.

SOURCE Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare