June is Men’s Health Month—a timely reminder to schedule any medical appointments you may have been putting off. According to the CDC, men are less likely than women to seek regular medical care, which makes this a great time to prioritize your health and get those appointments on the calendar.  

Why Preventive Care Matters

Delaying or skipping screenings can lead to late detection of serious conditions. Preventive care can catch issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, or even certain cancers before they become major problems. Staying on top of routine checkups is one of the best ways to invest in long-term health.

Key Screenings to Consider

• Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: High blood pressure and elevated cholesterol often show no symptoms but are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke. Most men (and women too) should be screened annually, or more frequently if they have risk factors.
• Diabetes Screening: Men are more likely to develop diabetes than women. An individual can be prediabetic and not display any symptoms, which is why screenings are important. A simple blood test can delay or even prevent type 2 diabetes and prevent future health complications.
• Colorectal Cancer Screening: Men aged 45 and older should consider a colonoscopy or other tests authorized and approved by your physician. If colorectal cancer is in your family, your doctor may recommend you start getting tested at a younger age. Early detection dramatically increases treatment success.
• Prostate Health: Prostrate cancer is one of the more common cancer types, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether PSA (prostate-specific antigen) testing is right for you based on age, family history, and risk. In particular, let your doctor know if you experience any of these symptoms which can be signs of early-stage prostate cancer: 
  
  • Trouble urinating or frequent urination.
  • Blood in your urine. 
  • Blood in your semen.
• Skin and Testicular Exams: Regular self-checks and annual skin exams can help detect early signs of skin cancer or testicular cancer – both highly treatable when caught early.
• Lung Cancer Screening: If you are a current smoker or have smoked within the past 15 years, talk to your healthcare provider about a lung cancer screening. 

Remember, early detection of any of the above is key to better outcomes. Take advantage of your health benefits and schedule a wellness check-up with your doctor. If you are enrolled in a Transocean medical plan, visit UHC to locate an in-network provider and get your appointment scheduled. During your exam, your physician will discuss what screenings make sense for you, and when.

Don’t Forget Mental Health

Physical health is only one piece of the puzzle. Depression, anxiety, and stress are common but often unspoken or overlooked issues for men. Pay attention to early warning signs of a mental health disorder, or if you’re simply feeling overwhelmed, it’s okay to reach out to a healthcare provider or counselor. Once again, your Transocean benefits have you covered whether it’s for behavioral health, substance abuse, depression, or anxiety. Remember, the Optum Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available to all employees and their dependents, even those not enrolled in a UHC medical plan (access code: RIG).is available to all employees and their dependents, even those not enrolled in a UHC medical plan, (access code: RIG)

Your Health is Worth Your Time: Take the First Step

Men’s Health Month is your reminder to take charge. Whether it’s scheduling a checkup, updating vaccines, or simply having a conversation with your doctor, small actions now can make a big difference down the road. Your health is worth your time, and is your gift to you and your loved ones.