Researchers at the University of Chicago found that when a wife works at a job more than 40 hours a week, her husband’s chance of being in good or excellent health declines by more than 25 percent. So what can men do to take control of their own health? Here are some simple suggestions.

Get Comfortable

It’s no wonder women may feel more comfortable visiting the doctor. Besides their own exams, many women also accompany their children and husbands to the doctor. Men, on the other hand, may cringe at the thought of a tongue depressor or cower at the mere mention of a paper robe. If a man is uncomfortable going to the doctor, he may be less likely to ask questions, point out symptoms or push for tests. According to a survey sponsored by Men’s Health magazine and CNN, 25 percent of men said they even lie to their doctors, because they are afraid the doctors will get mad, they fear bad news or they’re just embarrassed.

If you’re an apprehensive male patient, it’s important to find a physician with whom you can feel at ease and trust. Ask your male friends and relatives for recommendations. Then, before your appointment, write a list of questions so you won’t forget to ask the doctor anything important.

Read Up

A man is more likely to recognize health problems and symptoms if he knows what they are; but as studies show, men don’t seek out health issues. It’s important that men learn the signs and symptoms of common male health problems.

• Learn the signs of heart disease.
• Find out what a healthy blood pressure reading is and what your cholesterol levels should be.
• Read up on the symptoms of testicular cancer, impotence and other conditions.
• Most diseases have risk factors and recommended screening guidelines. Find – out how often you should be screened for prostate cancer and colon cancer.
• Compile a family health history, so you’re aware of your genetic risks for certain diseases.

Shake the Stereotypes

From an early age, our culture tells little boys that “boys don’t cry” and “take it like a man.” So, it shouldn’t be surprising that grown men aren’t as willing to talk about sensitive health problems. A man is not weak because he follows a healthful diet, takes vitamins, adopts an exercise program or gets yearly physicals. Men must shake the stereotypes to take control of their health.

• Take a multi-vitamin that is rich in anti-oxidants and vitamin E.
• Avoid greasy, fried food.
• Substitute olive oil in place of butter when you cook. It allows the skin to retain its elasticity longer.
• Exercise will do wonders to your heart rate. It will clear your pores, increase your metabolism, and generally make you feel better about yourself. Sweating allows your inner body to cleanse itself.
• The best way to take care of your skin is to drink plenty of water on a day to day basis. The majority of your body’s cells are made of water, and it only makes sense to keep hydrated.
• Increase your intake if you are a drinker of beverages that dehydrate you, such as coffee, soda, and alcohol. Limit your intake of alcohol as it leads to bad-looking skin.