Myth #1 Health screenings are difficult and time consuming.
Many health screenings can be completed during a short, hour-long visit to your primary care physician's office and could potentially save your life. "Many screenings, such as prostate screenings, for example, are quick and straightforward, often taking just minutes during a routine visit. Incorporating these screenings into your health care routine is not only easy but crucial for catching potential prostate issues early, when they're most treatable,” said Dr. Tojuola.
Myth #2 It is normal to live with bladder issues as we age.
One of the most common health complications that men face is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is commonly known as an enlarged prostate. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Men may experience frequent urination, a weak urine stream, and sometimes urinary incontinence. These symptoms can greatly impact quality of life and should prompt a visit to a health care provider for diagnosis and management.
According to the National Institutes of Health, BPH affects approximately 50% of men between the ages of 51 and 60, and up to 90% of men older than 80.
"It may be normal to have an enlarged prostate with age, but it's not normal to live with the urinary issues it can cause. Addressing these symptoms early is crucial, as prolonged issues can lead to severe bladder health problems and a significantly reduced quality of life,” said Dr. Tojuola.
There are a number of treatment options available for men with BPH including medications and minimally invasive procedures that alleviate symptoms and may help men regain their quality of life.
Myth #3 Only a doctor can screen for testicular cancer.
Performing testicular self-exams at home is a vital method for men to detect abnormalities early. These exams enable men to become familiar with the normal size, shape, and texture of their testicles, helping them to recognize any changes such as lumps or swelling.
Promptly scheduling an appointment with a health care provider for further evaluation upon detecting any abnormalities is crucial. During annual checkups with a primary care physician, men can discuss any concerns or findings from their self-exams, ensuring comprehensive and proactive health care management.
Myth #4 My snoring is not a big deal.
Snoring is often dismissed as a harmless annoyance, but it can be a sign of a more serious underlying issue, especially for men. One common condition associated with snoring is sleep apnea, a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease and weight gain.
Men are more likely than women to suffer from sleep apnea, making it crucial for them to pay attention to snoring and seek medical advice if it is disrupting their sleep or causing other symptoms.
Myth #5 I'm fatigued but that's normal.
The notion that feeling fatigued is a normal part of life, particularly as men age, is a misconception with potentially serious implications.
"Fatigue can be a symptom of a number of underlying health conditions such as sleep apnea, anemia, thyroid disorders, or heart disease, which require medical attention," said Dr. Tojuola.
Additionally, fatigue also weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness.
Myth #6 Only older men need prostate screenings.
While age is a significant risk factor for prostate cancer, younger men can still develop the disease. Screening for prostate cancer, such as through a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or digital rectal exam (DRE), can help detect the disease early when it's more treatable.
At a minimum, Dr. Tojoula urges men to talk to their doctor about the risks and benefits of PSA screening. The American Urological Association recommends PSA screenings and DRE for men between the ages of 50 and 69 every one to two years.
Myth #7 Erectile dysfunction is not a major health concern.
Men may not always consider erectile dysfunction (ED) a serious issue, but it can be indicative of underlying health concerns. It is often associated with older age, but it can affect men as young as 40. ED often stems from vascular issues, where blood flow to the penis is hindered.
What makes ED particularly worrisome is its potential to serve as an early warning sign of more severe underlying health problems, particularly cardiovascular issues. The same vascular problems affecting blood flow to the penis can also impact blood vessels elsewhere in the body, including those in the heart. Thus, ED could potentially signal conditions such as heart disease or hypertension.
“When someone experiences ED, especially in conjunction with other symptoms like chest pain or known coronary artery disease, it could indicate a significant risk for heart disease,” said Dr. Tojuola.
Myth #8 Only women get osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is often perceived as a condition primarily affecting women, but men are also susceptible, especially with advancing age. While women are more prone to osteoporosis, men can experience significant bone loss, increasing their risk of fractures.
Several factors contribute to osteoporosis in men, including age-related bone density decline, hormonal changes like low testosterone levels, lifestyle habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, medical conditions like low vitamin D or calcium levels, certain medications like steroids, and a family history of osteoporosis or fractures.
It's crucial for men to recognize these risk factors and take preventive measures, including ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, engaging in weight-bearing exercises, avoiding smoking and excessive drinking, and discussing any concerns with a health care provider. Early detection and management of osteoporosis can help prevent fractures and related complications.
Myth #9 Wearing briefs will lower your sperm count
The idea that wearing briefs lowers sperm count is a myth. While it's true that briefs can lead to slightly higher scrotal temperatures compared to boxers, there's no evidence to suggest that this has a significant impact on sperm count. The body has mechanisms to regulate testicular temperature, and briefs are unlikely to cause a drastic increase that would affect sperm production. Other factors, such as genetics, overall health, and lifestyle choices, have a much greater impact on sperm count than the type of underwear worn.
Myth #10 Men don't experience hormonal changes.
The notion that men don't experience hormonal changes is a myth. In fact, hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of the aging process for men, just as they are for women.
"It's important to recognize that men undergo hormonal changes throughout their lives, particularly as they age. Testosterone levels, for example, tend to decrease with age, which can have various effects on the body and overall health,” said Dr. Tojuola.
These hormonal changes can impact various aspects of men's health, including libido, muscle mass, bone density and mood.
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