June is Men’s Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the unique health issues men face and to encourage early detection, treatment and prevention. Alaska Health Fair, Inc. is proud to support this important initiative, and we’re here to help you take control of your health. In this article, we’ll discuss the importance of men’s health and highlight the blood tests we offer that can help detect potential health problems.

Men’s health issues can often go unnoticed or undiagnosed, which is why it’s crucial to prioritize regular checkups and screenings. By taking an active role in your health, you can reduce your risk of developing serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers.

Alaska Health Fair, Inc. offers a variety of blood tests that can provide valuable information. Here are some key screenings that can be particularly informative for men:

Comprehensive Blood Chemistry Panel. This test measures various components of your blood, providing insight into your kidney and liver, as well as glucose, electrolyte and lipid levels. Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test. This test is recommended for men over 40 or those with a family history of prostate cancer. It measures the level of PSA, a protein produced by the prostate gland, to help detect potential issues like prostate cancer or an enlarged prostate.

Testosterone Level Test. Testosterone is a vital hormone for men, responsible for regulating bone density, muscle mass, and mental well-being. Insufficient testosterone levels may result in symptoms such as fatigue, depression and diminished sexual drive. While the testosterone test is typically performed as a diagnostic test based on specific symptoms, rather than as a routine screening, Alaska Health Fair encourages individuals to consult with their healthcare providers to determine whether this test is necessary and to discuss the results. This personalized approach ensures that each man receives the appropriate care and guidance for his unique health needs.

Vitamin D Test. Vitamin D is necessary for healthy bones, and a deficiency can result in bone pain, muscle weakness and increased risk of fractures.

Hemoglobin A1C Test. This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months, helping to identify potential risks for diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Blood Pressure Screening. This is an important test offered by Alaska Health Fair. Nearly half of adults in the U.S. have hypertension or are taking medication for hypertension. A greater percentage of men (50%) have hypertension than women (44%).

Although our spring health fair season has come to an end, we’ll be back with more health fairs at the end of August. To stay informed about upcoming events and the latest health news, sign up for the AHF newsletter on our website at https://alaskahealthfair.org.

Alaska Health Fair, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting wellness and disease prevention throughout Alaska. For over 40 years, we’ve been organizing health fairs and providing affordable, comprehensive blood tests to empower individuals to take control of their health. With our team of dedicated staff and volunteers, we strive to create healthier communities across the state.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take charge of your health this Men’s Health Month. Remember, prevention is the key to a healthy future.

The Alaska Health Fair, Inc. team.