Celebrating Men’s Health Month: Promoting Wellness and Awareness
June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about health issues commonly affecting men. Statistics show that men are less likely to visit a primary care doctor and have higher mortality rates from the leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, and accidental injuries. This month offers an excellent opportunity to discuss healthy habits that can lower the risk of these health problems.
Tips for Maintaining Men’s Health
- Get an Annual Preventive Care Check-Up: Regular check-ups can help catch small health issues before they escalate. Your doctor can recommend necessary screenings or tests, such as colorectal cancer screenings or blood sugar testing. Preventive services are 100% covered under many health plans when you see an in-network provider.
- Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet: Include plenty of whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables in your diet. Aim to make half of your plate fruits and veggies to promote heart health.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. Take advantage of the pleasant weather to go for a walk or engage in your favorite sport.
- Quit Nicotine: Whether it’s living longer or feeling and looking younger, find your motivation to quit smoking or using other nicotine products.
- Take Care of Your Mental Health: Life can be stressful and demanding. If you’re struggling to cope, talking with a mental health professional can help.
Celebrating Men’s Health Week
Men’s Health Week, an annual observance, raises awareness about the health challenges faced by men and promotes strategies for better physical and mental well-being. It encourages men of all ages to prioritize their health, seek preventive care, and engage in conversations about important health issues.
Did You Know?
Suicide Rates: Men are four times more likely to commit suicide than women. Taking care of your mind is just as crucial as taking care of your body. Practice mindfulness, stay connected with loved ones, and seek help when needed.
Breast Cancer in Men: More than 2,650 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Men should be familiar with how their breast tissue normally looks and feels to be aware of any changes. Early detection is key to successful treatment.
Routine Health Check-Ups: Men are less likely to see their healthcare provider about a health issue than women. Only 60 percent of men go to the doctor for a yearly routine check-up, and 40 percent won’t go until something is seriously wrong. This Men’s Health Month, let’s remind men that their doctor is their partner in health!
Prostate Cancer: It is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among men in the United States. A man is 2 to 3 times more likely to get prostate cancer if his father, brother, or son had it. Annual screenings by your primary care physician are crucial for early detection.
Erectile Dysfunction: Nearly 30 million men of all ages in the United States are affected by erectile dysfunction. If you’re experiencing problems, see a urologist to ensure it’s not an early warning sign for something more serious, like heart disease, high blood pressure, or high blood sugar.
Men’s Health Week: Shining a Spotlight on Men’s Health
Men’s Health Week highlights the unique health concerns impacting men and serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and managing health issues proactively. It encourages men to take charge of their well-being, make informed lifestyle choices, and seek appropriate medical support when needed.
On average, men in the United States die nearly six years earlier than women and are at higher risk for many serious diseases, including heart disease, lung cancer, and HIV. Additionally, men experience unique health problems that don’t affect women, such as prostate cancer. Socioeconomic factors like economic stability and educational access can increase their risk for poor health outcomes.
June 2024 Statement
Stronger Together, Better Forever: Building Better Health for Men & Boys, Lifelong.
Men’s Health Month is a call to action for men to prioritize their health and well-being. By taking proactive steps and seeking preventive care, men can lead healthier, happier lives.
