According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the leading causes of death in men are heart disease, cancer, diabetes and suicide. Unfortunately most of these go undetected until they become fatal, often because men avoid regular screenings for these diseases.

The week leading up to Father’s Day is recognized nationally as Men’s Health Week, and it’s a good time to remind men the steps they can take now to prevent many future health problems.

“The first thing men can do to take charge of their health is to find a doctor they are comfortable with,” said Archbold Primary Care physician Jackson Hatfield, MD. “It’s important to have a good relationship with your physician because you’ll be more likely to visit your doctor for check-ups regularly and prevent or detect health problems should they arise.”

Dr. Hatfield also recommends that men make healthy lifestyle choices.

“Nutrition is critical to achieve overall good health,” said Dr. Hatfield. “Talk with your doctor about forming healthy eating habits that will help you achieve optimum nutrition.”

Staying active and getting plenty of rest should also be a priority for men.

“On average, adults should get about two and a half hours of physical activity every week,” said Dr. Hatfield. “It’s also important not to compromise when it comes to sleep. On average, you should be getting seven to eight hours of sleep every night.”

Throughout National Men’s Health Week, Archbold will share health tips for men on the health system’s Facebook page. For more information, visit Archbold Medical Center’s Facebook page.