Men’s Health

Men and women are different. Most people know that on some level, but those differences are rarely expressed in health care terms. As healthcare providers, though, we see how men and women approach their health needs differently. 

Men’s health and preventative care is not on the forefront of their minds as much or as often as it is for women. Women tend to be much more consistent with seeing their healthcare provider. Does this mean that men are just healthier or that women have more problems? NO! Quite the reverse. In fact, men generally tend to lead less healthy lifestyles than women (smoking, poor diet) and don’t have their health screenings as often. This not only means that they begin from a less healthy baseline, but the differences widen when they neglect dealing with problems they do encounter. Somehow, seeing a healthcare provider is seen as not ‘manly’. And it’s costing many men their well being, and sometimes their lives.

Why is it important to see your healthcare provider at least every year? Checking your blood pressure, kidney and liver function, going over diet, activity and stress can give us a good idea of small lifestyle changes that can help you avoid high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and certain cancers. In these ways, little changes can lead to longer lives.

Mood disorders (depression, anxiety, PTSD) are just as common in men as in women, but women tend to seek help sooner. These common problems can wreak havoc on relationships, cause decreased productivity at work, and take a toll on your physical health. Here at IFM, we will guide you through treatment of your mental health conditions and help you to be the best version of yourself, whether you are a man or a woman. 

The purpose of health care isn’t simply to keep you from dying. It’s to give you opportunities to increase and enhance your living! Just like getting your car’s oil changed and tires rotated so that your car not only runs, but runs smoothly, you should come in periodically to give your body a checkup!​​