June is Men’s Health month. It is no secret that men have an average life expectancy less than that of women. However, some of the issues men face are treatable if detected early enough. High blood pressure, diabetes, and certain cancers that shorten the lives of many men can be detected and treated. But many men do not go in for regular checkups or go to the doctor until the symptoms they may be dealing with get to the point they have no choice.
I am older now than when my grandfathers on both sides of my family were when they passed away. Both passed away with treatable illnesses that went undetected and/or untreated. I have a six year old grandson that I want to see grow up, so I try to take care of myself, and I go in for routine checkups. I encourage others to do the same.
You will also see in the attached flyer that pertussis (whooping cough) is spreading in Kentucky. Also, H1N1 (the bird flu) has been detected in Kentucky. Although it is rare, humans can be affected. People who work with poultry or cattle are most at risk, however, others can help prevent the spread. The Kentucky department of Fish and Wildlife says “The public can help limit the spread of the disease by avoiding contact with birds and their droppings at home and outdoor areas such as parks and ponds. They can also practice good hygiene with such simple precautions as wearing gloves, changing shoes, and disinfecting exposed tools or materials before coming into contact with any pet or domestic bird species at home.”
Thank you to our Regional Epidemiologist, Blake Johnson, for this report and attached flyer!