Men’s health often takes a back seat in discussions, yet it is crucial to address this issue to improve overall wellbeing. Statistics reveal that men are less likely than women to visit a doctor, often leading to late diagnosis of preventable diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are 24% less likely than women to have visited a doctor within the past year.1 This trend contributes to higher mortality rates for conditions such as heart disease, cancer and diabetes among men.
A proactive approach to men’s health is essential. Regular check-ups, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mental health awareness are fundamental components. However, advancements in medical science offer an additional layer of personalized care—Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing.
PGx testing analyzes how a person’s genetic makeup affects their response to medications. This personalized approach to medicine ensures that individuals receive the most effective treatments with the least side effects. For men, who often experience conditions such as cardiovascular diseases or prostate cancer, PGx testing can be a game-changer.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that PGx testing improved medication outcomes and reduced adverse reactions by 30%.2 This is particularly relevant for men who might be prescribed medications for chronic conditions like hypertension or depression. Understanding how their body will respond to specific drugs allows for tailored treatment plans, improving efficacy and reducing the risk of harmful side effects.
Men’s health requires attention and proactive management. Embracing innovations like PGx testing can significantly enhance the quality of care. By combining traditional health practices with personalized medicine, men can achieve better health outcomes and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Talk to your healthcare provider about PGx testing options like Precision Primary and discover if this type of testing is right for you.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Summary Health Statistics: National Health Interview Survey. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhis/shs.htm
- Drozda, K., Muir, K. W., & Thornton, K. (2014). Personalized medicine: Pharmacogenomics in the management of adverse drug reactions. Journal of the American Medical Association, 311(19), 1981-1991. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2014.4482
