June is Men’s Health Month – an opportunity to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.
The Health Gap Between Men and Women
The life expectancy of men in the United States is almost five years less than that of women, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). But that’s not all:
- Men are more likely to die of heart disease, cancer, diabetes and liver disease than their female counterparts.
- 50% of men who die suddenly from coronary health disease had no previous symptoms.
- Almost a third of men with diabetes are unaware they have the disease.
- One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
What can you do to help close this gap and protect your health or that of the men and boys in your life? This June, as part of Men’s Health Month, take proactive steps to improve your health and participate in Wear BLUE Day to help raise awareness of men’s health issues.
Seek Regular, Preventive Care
Women schedule regular exams and preventive services at a 100% higher rate than men, according to a CDC study. With regular doctor check-ups and disease screening, men can help increase the likelihood that serious diseases are detected early, when they can be more amenable to treatment.
Lower Your Health Risks
Simple changes in your lifestyle can have a big impact on your health and longevity. Make a concerted effort to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, trim those extra pounds, quit smoking, limit alcohol consumption, get plenty of sleep and manage stress. Ask your doctor what else you can do to help prevent health problems before they happen.
Watch for Warning Signs
Men are often raised to “tough it out” and may take the same approach to health, ignoring symptoms of potential medical problems. Learn the symptoms to watch for and other tips for healthy lifestyles with the Blueprint for Men’s Health provided by the Men’s Health Network.
Self-checks are also important. In some cases, such as skin cancer, lesions are often found on the back, so involving a partner or other family member can help.
Wear Blue on Friday, June 18th
Show you care about men’s health by participating in Wear BLUE Day. It’s the perfect time to share information about men’s health on social media, start a conversation about health with the men in your life or raise funds for the Men’s Health Network, a national nonprofit organization devoted to promoting men’s health. Ultimately, the goal is to help men live longer, healthier lives. #ShowUsYourBlue
