Despite having higher rates of death and lower life expectancy than women, men are half as likely to visit a doctor for an annual physical as women. Mount Sinai is hoping to change this by arming men and the women who love them with tips to stay healthy and live longer.Men should see a doctor at least once a year for a physical exam. Keeping track of changes in one's health and body is the best way to detect problems early, before they become serious. There are a few important numbers which are checked during a physical.What numbers should men always know? PSA level: Prostate-specific antigen is a substance produced by the prostate. High PSA levels may indicate prostate cancer, an enlarged prostate, an infection (prostatitis), or another issue or condition. Cholesterol: High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke, two of the top five leading causes of death for men in the United States. Weight: Being overweight or obese can cause or contribute to a host of medical problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, joint problems and osteoarthritis, sleep apnea and gallstones. Liver Enzyme Levels: Checked as part of a routine blood test, the presence of elevated numbers of certain liver enzymes can be an early indicator of liver damage or disease. Leslie Schlachter, RPA-Director or Men's Health Center, shares the four numbers that men should always be aware of.
