The month of June is recognized as Men’s Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the various health issues that affect men and encouraging them to prioritize their well-being. It is important to have a Men’s and Woman’s Health Awareness Month because both face a unique set of health challenges that the other does not. Historically, there has been a tendency for men to avoid seeking medical attention. This can be for various reasons, but this usually leads to a delay in diagnoses which can increase the likelihood of a negative health outcome.
Several health conditions significantly impact men’s well-being and quality of life. These health concerns include:
- Heart disease: When compared to women, men are more likely to be diagnosed with heart disease. It is also the leading cause of death for men in the United States. Heart disease refers to several different types of heart conditions like heart failure and arrhythmias.
- Sexual Health: The prostate is a small gland that is part of the male reproductive system. It starts growing during puberty and can keep growing throughout a man’s life. This continued growth could cause problems with age since it is located behind the bladder. If it gets too big, it can disrupt your bladder and cause you to have problems with urinating. This is usually not life-threatening but if left untreated, it can cause future problems for your kidneys or bladder. Prostate cancer and testicular are the most common forms of cancer that can occur in men with testicular cancer being seen more in younger men and prostate cancer being seen more in older men.
- Mental Health: It is important to focus on all aspects of an individual’s being including mental health. Men are less likely to see a doctor, so they often experience higher rates of undiagnosed mental health conditions. Men also have higher rates of dying from suicide than women.
With some of the health concerns listed, here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Regular Check-ups: Men should prioritize routine health check-ups including screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, and cancer. Some of the health concerns listed are time sensitive meaning the earlier you catch it, the better.
- Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Adopting healthy habits can improve both your physical and mental health. Eating healthier food and monitoring your sugar, sodium, and cholesterol can help improve your cardiovascular health. Becoming more active with exercising or more walking can also improve your cardiovascular health while relieving some stress.
- Mental Health Support: Men should be encouraged to seek support for their mental health. Initiatives promoting mental health awareness and access to mental health resources can play a crucial role in breaking down barriers and reducing stigma.
- Education and Awareness: Educating men about the signs and symptoms of various health conditions can help them make informed decisions about their health. It is especially important for younger adults to learn how to self-examine themselves for testicular cancer.
Men’s Health Awareness Month is a valuable initiative aimed at high lighting the importance of men’s physical and mental well-being. By addressing prevalent health concerns, we can encourage men to prioritize their health and seek appropriate care when needed. Let us use this month to initiate meaningful conversations, promote healthier lifestyles, and support the overall well-being of men in our communities.
If you’re looking for local resources to support your health, you can visit our Disability Resource Directory and select the Health & Wellness and Mental Health Categories. You can also contact our Public Health Specialists Shajia Afrin or Caleb Colbert for direct assistance in finding resources that meet your needs.
Shajia Afrin
Phone: 240-898-2186
Email: safrin@innow.org
Caleb Colbert
Phone: 240-898-2181
Email: ccolbert@innow.org
