Most of us keep track of certain numbers—a golf handicap, a mortgage rate or a car’s mileage—without much effort. These numbers serve as familiar reference points that help guide decisions.
Health has numbers like these, too—but many men don’t know them. Too often, blood pressure goes unchecked, persistent stress levels are ignored, and recommended screenings get delayed. Preventive care and conversations about mental or emotional health can easily be put off, too, allowing small issues to quietly become bigger ones.
The good news is that just a few key numbers can provide powerful insight. Here are four that every man should know.
120/80
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. More than half of American men have high blood pressure or are taking medication to manage it, according to the CDC.
A healthy blood pressure is around 120/80. When readings stay elevated over time, the risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease increases. Because high blood pressure rarely causes symptoms, routine checkups are often the only way to catch it early.
If your numbers are higher than they should be, steps like improving diet, increasing physical activity, reducing sodium and alcohol intake, improving your sleep, and following your doctor’s treatment plan can lower blood pressure and reduce risk.
45
Colorectal cancer is increasingly being diagnosed in adults under 50, and men are more likely than women to be diagnosed at later stages, when treatment is more complex. That trend is why national guidelines now recommend men at average risk begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45.
Screening is especially important because colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms and commonly begins as precancerous polyps that can be removed before cancer forms.
For men, turning 45 is a cue to talk with a doctor about screening—not a one‑size‑fits‑all test. Several screening options are available, and the right choice depends on factors like family history and overall health.
14
Mental health concerns often develop gradually, showing up as changes in sleep, mood, focus or energy. One useful reference point is 14: the CDC defines “frequent mental distress” as experiencing 14 or more days in a month when feelings of stress, anxiety or low mood are persistent.
That number matters because early support is often the most effective—and least disruptive—kind of care. When men talk with a doctor sooner, support can often happen through routine visits, outpatient care or virtual services rather than in a crisis setting.
Mental health is a core part of overall health, and recognizing when tough days add up is an important first step in getting help.
2
Alcohol is part of many adults’ lives, but how much—and how often—matters for long‑term health. According to the CDC, if men choose to drink alcohol, moderation means no more than two drinks per day.
Even drinking within this range can affect sleep, mood and energy, and alcohol use is linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, colon and liver.
Many men drink more than they realize, in part because standard drink sizes are often larger than expected. If alcohol starts interfering with how you feel, function or sleep, it’s worth talking with your doctor.
Good Health Starts with Prevention
Numbers help guide decisions in many areas of life. These four health numbers can do the same.
Regular checkups, preventive screenings and open communication with your doctor give men the opportunity to catch problems early and stay healthier longer.
Dr. Jeremy Wigginton is chief medical officer at Capital Blue Cross. For more information, visit www.capbluecross.com
This is not medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. The information provided is meant for a general audience. Capital Blue Cross and its affiliated companies believe this health education resource provides useful information but does not assume any liability associated with its use.
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