Being comfortable (and safe) in your own skin
By Sonny Patel, MPH | July 27, 2010
By Brandon Leonard, MA
Although summer break for many Americans is inconceivably more than half over, there are still many vacations, barbeques and outdoor games to be had. While you’re enjoying the sunshine, make sure you’re being nice to your skin. This is of particular concern to men, who on average spend more time outdoors for both work and play than women. Unfortunately, men also appear to be less aware of the risks of sun exposure and do less to protect themselves when they’re outside. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, white men over 50 are the demographic with the highest rate of skin cancer, and men in general are less like to take precautions or to quickly deal with skin issues when they do develop. Do men just care less about taking care of themselves? The results of a 2006 study about the prevalence of sun-care products in popular U.S. magazines suggests that part of the issue is simply lack of awareness. Analyzing summer issues of the magazines, the researchers found that 77% of advertising for sunscreen and similar products occurred in women’s magazines, while publications targeting men such as outdoor recreation magazines included such ads only once every six issues on average. There’s a self-perpetuating cycle of public perception that men don’t care as much about their health, and then less information targeting men with products and suggestions that can help them avoid serious health issues.
I’m not suggesting that sunscreen is the ultimate solution to skin diseases such as melanoma. But certainly, using the appropriate kind and amount of these products is one of the best ways to protect yourself if you’re going to be outside. Other simple suggestions: don’t leave home without a hat and sunglasses, and when possible wear a long-sleeve shirt to better protect your arms (wear sunscreen anyway). For some helpful tips on when, where and what type of sunscreen to use, take a look at this page from the Skin Cancer Foundation: http://www.skincancer.org/sunscreens-explained.html. One important note is that clouds don’t keep all of the sun’s rays from reaching your skin – so get in the habit of wearing some sunscreen daily, no matter what the weather is like. Equally important is being aware of changes in your skin such as moles and sores that could be symptomatic of cancer or other serious diseases. Some helpful tips on what to look for can be found here: http://www.skincancer.org/Self-Examination/. When you spot changes or irregularities, be sure to see a doctor right away. Finally, help your family and friends by encouraging them to protect themselves from overexposure to the sun and to perform regular self-examinations to catch any problems early. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and don’t forget to take care of your skin!
References:
“Men and Skin Cancer: Solving the Knowledge Gap.” The Skin Cancer Foundation. 2010. http://www.skincancer.org/Self-Examination/.
“BU dermatology study says sunscreen advertising doesn’t reach men.” BU Today. June 7, 2006. http://www.bu.edu/today/node/1569
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Topics: Education, Lifestyle Issues, Medical Issues, Well-being | No Comments »
How Much Is Enough Protein?
By Sonny Patel, MPH | July 19, 2010
By Diana Stobo
Many people, including nutritionist, still think that you cannot get enough protein without eating meat, fish, or chicken. But is this really true? I don’t eat meat, I am in decent shape, my body is lean but not small. I have good musculature and strong bones. I walk/run 5 days a week, do yoga and lift weights at times. I am always full of energy, don’t need too much sleep, unless it’s winter, then I hibernate. I am a over 80% raw and mostly Vegan. Am I truly at a deficit if I am not eating animal flesh? The question for me really is how much do “the experts” say we need, as apposed to how much we really need? I don’t have the answer, but if “the experts” are right, then I had better start eating MORE Spinach!
Topics: Education, Fitness, Lifestyle Issues | 3 Comments »
Men’s Health on Fox News
By Sonny Patel, MPH | July 15, 2010
For those who do not regularly watch weekend news, what I am about to tell you may come to you as a surprise. Fox News has officially started a weekly Saturday segment dedicated to men’s health. Yes, it is incredible and a great first step toward educating the public about the prominent issues in men’s health. Few weeks ago, I had the privilege to sit down with Dr. David Samadi, who is also part of Men’s Health Network’s Board of Advisors. He ensured me that the segments will not dance around the issues just for TV entertainment, but it will cover great preventable advice along with giving the cliff notes of the subject manner. Still skeptic? Check out Dr. Samadi’s latest clips about preventing stroke and coronary heart disease on Fox News below, and then let me know what you think!
Topics: Education | 5 Comments »
The Eroding (Ok, Eroded) Masculinity of the American Male
By Sonny Patel, MPH | July 8, 2010
By Luke Manley, MPH
When you reflect on what it means to be a Man, you probably think in much the same way as generations of men have before you. The tough Western cowboy, the dutiful soldier, or the heroic fireman. Chances are you don’t consider Adam Sandler’s Billy Madison, Seth McFarlane’s Peter Griffin, or any of the current crop of male TV sitcom characters to be pillars of Masculinity. Yet while the stoic, focused, and responsible male archetype has persisted for generations, it seems that at no other point in our history has the reality deviated so sharply from the ideal.
Topics: Family Issues, Lifestyle Issues, Well-being | 6 Comments »
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