In sickness and in health...

Women often end up being the ones to take care of the health of their family, including the men in their lives. While most men make sure to get regular tune-ups for their car or keep up with maintenance of their lawn, they often neglect regular maintenance on their own health. Frequently, it is women who take action for the health of their sons, husbands and even fathers.

Heart disease, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes are some of the leading causes of death and disability among American men today. Many disease risks are compounded by lack of awareness and poor lifestyle habits. Knowing what health concerns to watch for and when men need to get which screening test can go a long way in making good health easier.

A good men's health maintenance plan should include:

• Physical exam (including weight and height) - every two years until age 50; then every year

• Blood pressure checks - at least every two years at all ages; annually or more often if you have high blood pressure

• Cholesterol - total, LDL, HDL and triglycerides - develop a plan with your doctor

• Monthly self-exam for testicular cancer and/or abnormalities - all ages, beginning at age 15

• Prostate screening - beginning at age 50, annual digital rectal exam and PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) blood test. African American men and those with a family history may wish to be screened earlier.

• Colorectal cancer screenings - beginning at age 50, annual fecal occult blood test and a colonoscopy every 10 years

• Blood tests (to screen for various conditions and diseases such as diabetes, kidney or thyroid dysfunction) - every three to five years ages 20 to 39; every two years ages 40 to 49; every year after age 50

• Skin cancer screening (mole exam) - monthly self-exams at all ages; every three years by a healthcare provider from age 20 to 40; every year by a healthcare provider after age 40

• Eye exam - one screening between age 20 and 39; every two years from ages 40 to 64; every one to two years after age 65.

• Hearing test - every 10 years until age 50; then every three years

• Immunizations - tetanus booster every ten years; flu shot every year if at risk, especially after age 50; pneumonia shot after age 65

Having the right tools makes any job easier. It's no different when it comes to equipping women with the information they need to keep the men in their lives healthy.

St. Luke's offers a free Men's Health Panel Card with a handy list of screenings and health checks, along with information on when and how often to get them. Call 314-542-4848 to request a copy or click here to download it.

St. Luke's Hospital is a regional healthcare provider committed to improving the quality of life for patients and the community. It offers more than 60 specialty areas and was the only Missouri hospital named an America's 50 Best Hospital™ by HealthGrades® in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011 based on quality.

"In the Sproutlight" is a sponsored opportunity. For more information on sponsorship, e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call 636-544-7233.

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