June was Men’s Health Month, but although it has passed that doesn’t mean you should stop taking time dedicated to raising awareness about the specific health issues that affect men and boys. But why is this important?
Men tend to have poorer health outcomes than women. They visit doctors less frequently, delay seeking preventive care, and are more likely to engage in risky behaviours. This can lead to earlier development of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
Men’s Health Month served as a critical reminder to prioritise well-being. Throughout June, healthcare providers, organisations, and individuals come together to:
- Increase awareness of preventable health problems in men.
- Encourage early detection and treatment of diseases.
- Promote healthy behaviours for men and boys.
A Look Back at Men’s Health Advocacy
The origins of Men’s Health Month can be traced back to 1994. In the United States, Congress established National Men’s Health Week to address concerning health statistics for men. The observation of men’s health began in the early 2000s to create a platform to educate, reduce stigma, and prioritize men’s health. [Men’s Health Network, menshealthmonth.org].
Globally, International Men’s Health Week, held in mid-June, serves a similar purpose. This international effort underscores the need for a global focus on men’s health [Men’s Health Network, menshealthmonth.org].
Did you know?
- Men’s hearts are larger than women’s, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re stronger! Men’s hearts pump more blood with each beat, but women tend to outlive men by an average of several years [Cardiology Associates of Michigan, cardofmich.com].
- Men are more susceptible to hearing loss, especially in higher frequencies, than women who tend to have – trouble with lower frequencies [El Camino Health, elcaminohealth.org].
- Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men ages 15 to 34, highlighting the importance of self-examinations and regular checkups [Cardiology Associates of Michigan, cardofmich.com].
Cardiology Associates of Michigan, El Camino Health, Cardiology Associates of Michigan
Key Health Issues Affecting Men
Heart Disease: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Risk factors include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and obesity.
Cancer: Prostate, lung, and colorectal cancers are among the most common cancers affecting men. Early detection through screenings can significantly improve outcomes.
Mental Health: Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Stigma and societal expectations often discourage men from discussing their mental health openly.
Diabetes: Type 2 diabetes is prevalent among men, and managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication is crucial to prevent complications.
Taking Charge of Your Health
Men’s Health Month is a great opportunity to reflect on your health and make positive changes. Here are some starting points:
- Schedule a checkup with your doctor, even if you’re feeling well.
- Learn about diseases that commonly affect men and their risk factors.
- Encourage open discussions about mental health and promote seeking help when needed.
- Develop healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep.
- Talk openly with your doctor about any health concerns you may have.
- Encourage the men and boys in your life to prioritize their health.
- Highlight the benefits of quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption.
In conclusion Men’s Health Month is a crucial observance that promotes awareness of men’s health issues and encourages preventive care and early detection of diseases. Suffice as to say we can keep promoting it but at the end of the day the ball is in your court to take charge of your health, scheduling regular check-ups, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and supporting initiatives that promote your health.
Make an appointment today to discuss your health and wellness goals.
Together, we can make Men’s Health Month a springboard for lifelong well-being!
Sources
· Men’s Health Month. https://menshealthmonth.org/week/history
· Pockitudes https://www.pockitudes.com/blog/the-history-of-mens-mental-health-month-a-journey-toward-awareness-and-understanding
· Men’s Health Network. “Men’s Health Month.”
http://www.menshealthnetwork.org/
· Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Men’s Health.” https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mens-health.htm
· American Heart Association. “Heart Disease in Men.”
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease
· American Cancer Society. “Cancer Facts for Men.”
https://www.cancer.org/latest-news/facts-and-figures-2022.html
· Mayo Clinic. “Men’s Health: Prevent the Top Threats.”
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/mens-health/art-20047764
· Mental Health America. “Men and Mental Health.”
https://www.mhanational.org/men-and-mental-health
· Movember. “About Movember.”
https://us.movember.com/about/history
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