St. Mark’s Recognizes Men’s Health Awareness Month

St. Mark’s Medical Center is observing Men’s Health Awareness Month to heighten the public’s awareness of men’s preventable health problems and encourage the early detection and treatment of disorders among boys and men.

“We all recognize that protecting and preserving the good health and well being of our men and boys is vital to maintaining the health of our local communities,” said Mark Kimball, President and CEO of St. Mark’s. “Men’s Health Awareness provides us with this special opportunity to focus on and actively alert our men and boys and their families to the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle.”

“One of the most important practices is to regularly visit your primary care doctor to catch issues as early as possible,” said Ryan W. Frieben, M.D., board-certified urologist.

“Men are often hesitant to pursue treatment when a health issue occurs, but with today’s medical advancements, treatment can significantly improve quality of life.” The top five cancers for men under age 40 are in order: 1. Testicular; almost 1/2 of all testicular cancer cases are men between the ages of 20-34 2. Melanoma 3. Lymphoma 4. Colorectal, and 5. Leukemia. For men over age 40, the list

changes: 1. Prostate; six out of 10 are diagnosed in men ages 65 and up 2. Lung 3. Colorectal 4. Blader 5. Melanoma Locally, St. Mark’s surgical team routinely supports surgery on the prostate, bladder, ureters, and kidneys, as well as other health issues.

“We encourage all males to take advantage of the knowledge and opportunities that their local physician and facilities can offer,” said Kimball. “Local, convenient treatment is key to staying healthy and enjoying a long, fulfilling and productive life.”

St. Mark’s Medical Center (SMMC), is one of the top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals in the United States as ranked by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, and in 2022, rated a 4-star hospital by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The 100,000 sq. ft. community hospital serves residents of Fayette County and surrounding commu-nities with the latest medical technology and comprehensive health care from highly skilled physicians, nurses and professional staff. Services include cardiac, physical and occupational rehabilitation; wound care; orthopedic care; inpatient and outpatient care; a 24-hour emergency department; outpatient/elective surgeries and procedures; as well as laboratory and imaging services.

For more information, visit www.smmctx.org.