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13 June 2025

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4 minute read

Healthy Father, Stronger Family

By Dr. Dimitraj Maniam

As we celebrate Father’s Day, it’s the perfect time to remind all fathers that their health is not just a personal matter, it’s a family matter. A healthy father forms the backbone of a happy, resilient family. Consultant Internal Medicine Physician from Columbia Asia Hospital – Iskandar Puteri, Dr. Dimitraj Maniam, addresses some of the most pressing questions about men’s health today, especially for those juggling the demands of work and family life.

What are the most common health conditions affecting men today, especially those who are busy juggling work and family life?

“Among some of the more common health conditions affecting men today are hypertension (high blood pressure), high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity. Many busy men don’t exercise regularly, have poor dietary habits, work long hours, and are highly stressed, all of which increase their risk of developing these metabolic conditions. Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death among men globally. We also see rising cases of fatty liver disease, sleep disorders, and mental health conditions, particularly stress, anxiety, and depression.”

Many men delay or avoid medical check-ups. What are the silent or asymptomatic conditions that should be screened for regularly, and at what age?

Men should be aware that some of the most dangerous health issues may develop and worsen, without obvious symptoms. Regular screenings should include these five tests:

  1. Blood pressure
    Check annually from age 30-40, or earlier if there are additional risk factors.
  2. Blood sugar
    Screen for diabetes, especially if overweight or with a family history of diabetes.
  3. Cholesterol
    Check this at age 35-40, or earlier if there are additional risk factors.
  4. Colonoscopy
    This is important as you reach 50, or earlier if there’s a family history of colon cancer.
  5. Prostate health
    Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing or prostate exams usually start at age 50, or at 45 if there’s a family history of prostate cancer.
“Health screenings help early detection of silent diseases when no symptoms are apparent. When diseases are identified early, they are much easier to treat, resulting in better outcomes for the patient.”

Stress and burnout are common but under-discussed issues among men. How does chronic stress physiologically affect the body over time?

“Chronic stress has a profound effect on the body, primarily by raising levels of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, these elevated hormone levels can lead to a range of health issues. One significant impact is the increase in blood pressure and heart rate, which can elevate the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Chronic stress also weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. Additionally, it can disrupt sleep patterns, resulting in fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration. Mental health is also affected, as prolonged stress increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and, in some cases, mental or emotional burnout.”

In your opinion, do metabolic diseases in middle-aged men such as cardiovascular diseases, affect the overall wellbeing of the family unit, directly or indirectly?

“When a father is diagnosed with a metabolic disease, it affects not only his health and future well-being, but also that of the entire family. He becomes less enthusiastic and has less energy when it comes to spending time with the family. Work-related stress often finds its way home and disrupts family interactions, making the home less harmonious. Medical bills and time away from work due to illness will likely create financial difficulties. In the worst-case scenario, if the father becomes incapacitated or even succumbs to any illness, the family undergoes major disruptions socially, economically and emotionally.”

Can you share a few evidence-based, time-efficient health practices that busy men can incorporate daily to improve their health?

“Yes! Even small changes can make a big difference:
  • Incorporate short bursts of physical activity: Daily 30-40 minutes of brisk walking, climbing stairs, or resistance training exercises (using weights/ body weight) are simple, practical and effective.
  • Be selective about meals: ensure meals are balanced, prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains; minimize processed foods and refined sugar (food and drinks).
  • Stay hydrated: drink enough water throughout the day.
  • Practice stress-relief techniques: deep breathing, meditation, or stretching can lower stress levels.
  • Get adequate sleep: seven to eight hours every night is optimum.”

Are there any recent advancements or tools in preventative medicine that men should be aware of?

“Today, technology offers many tools to help men stay on top of their health. Mobile health apps, for example, can track steps, monitor heart rates, remind users to take medication, and even log meal details and caloric intake. Wearable devices like smartwatches go a step further by tracking fitness parameters, detecting irregular heartbeats, and monitoring sleep quality. Additionally, home monitoring devices such as digital blood pressure monitors and glucometers make it easier to keep track of important health metrics between doctor visits. Telemedicine also plays a vital role by providing convenient virtual consultations, making it easier for busy men to access professional healthcare advice.”

When it comes to health, how do fathers become positive role models for their children and what are the generational benefits of a father’s healthy habits?

“Children learn by watching. When fathers show good health practices like exercising regularly, eating nutritious and balanced meals, managing stress effectively, avoiding smoking, and prioritizing medical check-ups, they send a powerful message to their children that health is important. Over time, these habits can shape the family’s attitude toward health and good lifestyle practices will ensue. As these good habits are practiced and passed down from one generation to the next, they have the potential to significantly reduce the risk of chronic metabolic diseases within the family.”

What advice would you give to an overwhelmed and busy father who doesn't know where to start with prioritizing his health?

“Start small. Don’t try to overhaul everything at once. Select simple goals to achieve, such as walking 15 minutes a day, drinking more water, or scheduling that long-postponed health check-up, and then build from there. Remember, progress is more important than perfection. Also, don’t hesitate to ask for support from family, friends, or healthcare providers. Taking care of yourself allows you to always be the best version of yourself for your family.”

This Father’s Day, what is your heartfelt message to all fathers when it comes to their health and its impact on their family?

“Your intact health is one of the greatest gifts you can give your family. Prioritizing and ensuring your well-being directly benefits and safeguards the people you love, who also love you in return and rely on you. So, prioritize your well-being, make time for regular health check-ups, and take small steps each day to stay healthy and strong. Your family needs you healthy, happy, and present in their everyday lives, and you deserve to enjoy the life you work so hard to build.”

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13 June 2025

•

4 minute read

Healthy Father, Stronger Family

By Dr. Dimitraj Maniam

Dr. Dimitraj Maniam

Internal Medicine

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