Prioritize preventative care: Austin Diagnostic Clinic raises awareness during Men’s Health Month
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Dr. William Lewis, a physician at ADC, underscored the importance of men’s health screenings and routine checkups. After reviewing men’s health statistics, he found that men tend to visit the doctor less frequently than women.
“The fear of a diagnosis is a common reason for men not going to see the doctor, whether they have symptoms or not, even if they are aware of symptoms and don’t want to find out what it is,” Dr. Lewis said. “Rather than get a diagnosis from a physician, they prefer to suffer with what they are experiencing. Also, some men do not feel comfortable having certain parts of their bodies examined by the doctor and would rather push off any visit.”
Colon cancer has been a longtime focus in the realm of preventive care. Traditionally, individuals were advised to begin colon cancer screenings at age 50 or ten years before the age of a first-degree relative who had been diagnosed with the disease.
“We have been seeing a trend in younger patients in their 40s developing colon cancer, so the government is now advising people to get started at 45,” Dr. Lewis said. “Colon cancer can be caught if you get screened early, but it can be too late once it has been diagnosed. Colon cancer is a very slow growing cancer and if you catch it early enough, we can be 100% successful in preventing someone from developing the cancer from the polyps that are seen on the examination.”
There are now alternative testing methods available for those who may be hesitant or resistant to undergo a standard colonoscopy. Genetic testing and non-invasive stool testing have emerged as alternatives.
“Technology has improved so much, especially in preventative health by getting examinations, imaging, and bloodwork, that there’s no reason not to go to the doctor and get an examination to determine if the person is at higher risk,” Dr. Lewis said. “The earlier you catch it, the better your chances of overcoming any of these concerning findings.”
Dr. Lewis encourages male readers to reflect on how important their health and well-being are during National Men’s Health Month.
“You can think everything is fine … but if there is something you are not aware of, I recommend speaking with a specialist immediately,” Dr. Lewis said. “Have somebody review all the different screening tests for you to make sure you’re up-to-date on all of the immunizations that can keep you healthy. The most important thing you can do for yourself and your family is to establish a relationship with a physician.”
Dr. Lewis highlighted the influence of spouses/partners and loved ones in motivating men to seek medical care. Encouraging discussions with family and friends, especially for those whose partners may be hesitant, can lead to important preventative health examinations.
“All studies show that a lot of men will go to the doctor at the recommendation of their spouses/partners,” Dr. Lewis said. “Please talk to your spouse, talk to your parents and recommend that they come in for a general preventative health examination.”
Dr. Lewis said a comprehensive approach to healthcare is crucial, highlighting essential tests like blood pressure checks, diabetes screenings and cholesterol tests, all conveniently accessible at ADC. While prostate cancer screening typically commences at age 50, it is recommended that individuals with a family history of prostate cancer or who are of African American heritage begin screenings at age 45.
“Not only should you be seeing a doctor at age 50, but you should also begin seeing one at an earlier age, whether you are in your 20s or 30s, or even 40 years old, to have a relationship with a physician and to anticipate what will be done in the future years to help keep you in a good state of health,” Dr. Lewis said.
At ADC, Dr. Lewis is one of many primary care providers who can identify any risk factors and develop a wellness plan that is tailored to the patient’s needs.
“I’ve made great relationships with patients as well as the other physicians that I work with.
ADC is a multispecialty group with not only primary care physicians, but also numerous specialists. We also have our own laboratory and imaging center. Some patients think of it as a ‘one stop shop’, Dr. Lewis said. “A lot of patients feel comfortable knowing that within one system they can have almost all their health care taken care of.”
In observance of Men’s Health Month, take charge of your well-being by scheduling an appointment at ADC. Visit adclinic.com to book your appointment today.
The above story was produced by Holly Galvan with Community Impact’s Storytelling team with information solely provided by the local business as part of their “sponsored content” purchase through our advertising team. Our integrity promise to our readers is to clearly identify all CI Storytelling posts so they are separate from the content decided upon, researched and written by our journalism department.
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