Don’t Skip the Pit Stop: prioritize preventive care during Men’s Health Month
HSHS and World Wide Technology Raceway partnering to raise awareness
By Tribune Staff • As the official medical care provider of World Wide Technology Raceway, HSHS is encouraging men to make preventive health care a priority during Men’s Health Month by staying up to date on routine checkups and screenings.
Just like a race team relies on regular pit stops to keep a car performing at its best, physicians say preventive care plays a critical role in helping men stay healthy and catch potential concerns early, often before symptoms appear.
“Many men tend to put their health in the back seat, especially when life gets busy or they feel fine,” said Dr. Brian Klostermann. “But routine screenings and annual wellness visits can help identify risks early, when conditions are often easier to manage or treat. Preventive care is one of the most important ways men can protect their long-term health.”
Health screenings are not one-size-fits-all and often depend on age, family history and personal risk factors. Physicians recommend establishing care with a primary care provider and staying current on recommended screenings throughout every stage of life.
In their 20s and 30s, men should focus on building a healthy foundation by monitoring blood pressure, weight, cholesterol, mental health and lifestyle habits. In their 40s, screenings for heart disease risk, diabetes and colorectal cancer become increasingly important. Men in their 50s and beyond should stay current with cancer screenings, vaccines and chronic disease management to help maintain their health and independence.
Providers also encourage men to speak openly about concerns that may otherwise go unaddressed, including fatigue, sleep issues, stress, sexual health, urinary changes and family history of disease.
Visit with HSHS team members during all national events at World Wide Technology Raceway this season, including NASCAR Enjoy Illinois 300 on Sept. 7 and NHRA Midwest Nationals, Oct. 2-4.
To schedule an appointment with a primary care provider or learn more about preventive care services, visit www.hshs.org.
