Alright, guys, here’s your updated to do list this month:

• Oil change
• Air conditioner service
• Lawn mowing
• Annual physical

As it turns out, it’s a whole lot easier to get guys to do the first three things on the list than the last.

Usually, the older we get, the more likely we are to get regular physical exams. But why do we wait so long? Are we wimps? Afraid of a little needle? Traumatized by those “turn your head and cough” exams we used to endure before high school football season?

In recognition of national Men’s Health Week, June 9-15, Prime Magazine and the South Dakota Department of Health are partnering to promote annual physical exams for men.

Sure, we think we’re pretty macho — we take care of the wife and kids; we make sure there’s a roof over their heads; we’re competitive at work. But when was the last time you thought about getting an annual physical? Because the thing is, regular check ups and screenings mean a healthier you.

And a healthier you will be there to protect the wife and kids, God forbid it should ever come to that.
So, do this one favor for them: show the woman who loves you how much you love her by calling the doctor and scheduling an appointment. Think of it as a great Father’s Day gift to her.

What’s that you say? You already get regular physicals? Great! Pat yourself on the back and go hug your kids.

Then talk to your doctor about your personal health situation and family history and find out how often you need these screenings:
• high blood pressure
• high cholesterol
• diabetes
• cancers of the skin, prostate, and colon

And don’t forget to get regular oral health check ups. Many diseases are first diagnosed by a dentist. And when it comes to your health your chances for treatment and a cure are better with an early diagnosis.

Routine exams and screenings help save lives. You’ll want to consult with your doctor. If you don’t have one, ask a friend or co-worker for a reference or just open the phone book and look in the yellow pages. Talk to your dad or other family members and ask them about your family health history, and share that with the doctor and dentist. You’ll want that information for your kids’ sake, too. Not only for their doctors to know now, but so they can use the info when they grow up and decide to have regular exams of their own… just like their old man taught them.

For more information visit the South Dakota Department of Health’s Web site, www.healthysd.gov where you’ll learn more about men’s health, including nutrition and physical activity tips for the whole family.

Remember, as our friends at the Department of Health like to say: a healthier you begins with a few small steps.