March Madness: Your Men’s Health Bracket

By Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA

March Madness isn’t just about college basketball—it’s the perfect time to focus on men’s health. Just like filling out a bracket, making the right health choices requires strategy, preparation and a little bit of luck. Let’s breakdown your men’s health bracket and help you make it to the championship game of longevity and vitality.

First Round: Fundamentals Win Games

In basketball, teams that focus on fundamentals – passing, defense and free throws – tend to go far. The same goes for these health basics:

Nutrition: Cut down on fast breaks to the drive-thru. Fuel up with lean proteins, whole grains and vegetables.
Exercise: A strong offense is the best defense. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity per week to keep your heart in the game.
Sleep: Rest days aren’t just for athletes. Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep to optimize performance on and off the court.

Sweet 16: Screening Saves Seasons

Every year, top-seeded teams fall because they overlook their opponents. The same applies to men ignoring key health screenings:

Blood Pressure & Cholesterol: High numbers can lead to an early exit. Get checked regularly.
Diabetes: A silent opponent. Monitor your blood sugar, especially if you have a family history.
Prostate and Testicular Health: Don’t get benched by preventable conditions. Know when to screen based on age and risk factors.

Final Four: Mental Toughness Matters

Great teams stay composed under pressure. Your mental health is just as important as your physical well-being:

Stress Management: Full-court press at work? Take timeouts with meditation or exercise.
Depression and Anxiety: Talk to a coach – whether it’s a friend, therapist or physician.

Championship Game: Play for Longevity

Winning in men’s health isn’t about a buzzer-beater; it’s about consistency. Make smart choices, avoid turnovers (bad habits) and stay committed to your game plan. This March, as you cheer for your favorite team, remember– the most important bracket is the one that keeps you in the game for years to come. Look for my article on “The Low-down on Low Testosterone” in the next issue

Scott D. Miller, MD, MBA, is the Medical Director of Robotic Surgery at Wellstar North Fulton Hospital. He is a urologist with Wellstar Urology in Roswell and has practiced in Atlanta for over 20 years. Wellstar North Fulton Hospital offers the Know Your Heart Screening that can determine your risk of heart disease, stroke and other serious conditions. Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment.