June is Men’s Health Month — a time to raise awareness about the unique health challenges men face and, more importantly, a time to take action. This month, Southcoast Health primary care physician, Dr. Zachary Zanfes, offers empowering and practical guidance to help you take charge of your health and wellness.

Why Men’s Health Matters

On average, men live shorter lives than women and are more likely to put off going to the doctor. Many serious health issues — like heart disease, diabetes and cancer — can be caught earlier with the right screenings and managed effectively with healthy lifestyle changes. Men’s Health Month is your reminder: your health matters, and you deserve to live your healthiest life.

The Importance of Screenings

Screenings are one of the most powerful tools for preventing disease. They can help detect potential problems early, before symptoms arise and when treatment is often most effective. Getting screened regularly, as recommended, can be lifesaving.

Here’s a quick guide to essential screenings for men:

	Start Age:	Frequency:	Why it matters:
Blood Pressure Screening	18	At least once every 2 years if normal; more frequently if elevated or if you have risk factors such as heart disease, diabetes or kidney problems	High blood pressure is a silent risk factor for heart disease and stroke
Cholesterol Check	Age 20 (earlier if you have risk factors)	Every 4 – 6 years; more often if you are overweight, smoke or have a family history of heart disease	High cholesterol can lead to blocked arteries and heart disease
Colorectal Cancer Screening	45	Every 10 years (colonoscopy) or based on screening type and family history	1 in 24 men are at risk for colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society; early-stage colon cancer often has no symptoms; screening can help catch it early or prevent it altogether
Diabetes Screening	35 (or earlier with risk factors like obesity or family history)	Every 3 years or as recommended by your doctor	Many people with diabetes don’t know they have it; early detection can help prevent serious health complications
Prostate Cancer Screening	50 for most men; age 45 for Black men or those with a family history of prostate cancer	Discuss with your doctor; screening has both benefits and limitations, so recommendations vary	Screening can help identify cancer early, but it’s a personal decision best made with your provider
Skin Cancer Screening	Any age, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors or have a history of sunburns	Regular skin checks at home and during physical exams; look for new or changing blemishes, moles or unusual spots on the skin	Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in men (and women) but also one of the most treatable when caught early
Mental Health Check-Ins	Anytime	As needed or at annual visits	Mental health is health. Depression and anxiety often go unspoken, especially among men. You’re not alone, and help is available.

Simple Lifestyle Changes for Lifelong Wellness

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Start with small steps that make a big impact:

• Move more. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days. Walk, bike, lift weights — find what you enjoy.

• Fuel your body well. Choose whole foods: lean proteins, fruits, veggies, whole grains and healthy fats. Limit sugar, salt and processed foods.

• Stay hydrated. Your body needs water to function at its best. Aim for 8 cups a day.

• Get quality sleep. Prioritize 7 hours of restful sleep each night. Sleep affects everything from your mood to your metabolism.

• Quit smoking and limit alcohol. Your heart, lungs, liver — and future self — will thank you.

• Talk to your doctor. Your provider is your partner in health. Don’t wait for symptoms to show up to schedule a visit. And, you know your body best — if something feels off, talk to your doctor!

The Bottom Line

This Men’s Health Month, take a moment to check in with yourself. Are you feeling your best? When was your last checkup? What small step can you take today to support your health tomorrow?

Taking care of your health is not just about avoiding illness — it’s about showing up fully for the people and the life you love. You don’t have to do it all at once. But you do have to start.

Let’s prioritize your health — this month and every month. You’re worth it.

Wishing you good health,

Zachary Zanfes, DO

Dr. Zanfes practices at our newly expanded offices at 100 Rosebrook Way in Wareham, which offer a full spectrum of care in one convenient location.