MCHD recognizes Men’s Health Month 06.13.2023
June 13, 2023
MCHD recognized Men’s Health Month
MOBILE, Ala. — For the month of June, the Health Equity Office’s outreach activities will focus on Men’s Health. On May 31, 1994, President Bill Clinton signed the bill establishing National Men’s Health Week, which is celebrated the week that ends on Father’s Day. Since then, the week has grown to Men’s Health Month.
Men in the U.S., life expectancy is nearly six years less than women, and non-Hispanic Black and American Indian/Alaska Native men have a lower life expectancy than non-Hispanic white men. Many diseases that disproportionately impact men, like heart disease and cancer, are preventable through regular doctor’s visits and healthy lifestyle choices.
Men’s Health Month aims to raise awareness of preventable health problems and encourages early detection and treatment of diseases. Let us review some road markers for men who want to protect their health:
Make prevention a priority. Many health conditions can be prevented or detected early with regular checkups. Regular screenings may include blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, prostate health, and more. Schedule Your Annual Physical Exam TODAY!!
Be aware that heart disease is a leading cause of death in men. Know the major signs and symptoms of a heart attack. If you are having any of these symptoms, seek medical attention and do not delay, be evaluated by a medical provider. Call 911 if you think you are having a heart attack.
Eat healthy. Add more fruit and vegetables to your diet each day. Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins and minerals that may help protect you from chronic diseases. Limit or avoid foods that are high in calories, sugar, salt, and fat.
Get moving. Make a personal goal to do 2.5 hours of physical exercise per week. Physical activity can help control your weight, reduce your risk of heart disease and some cancers, and improve your mental health.
Quit smoking. Tobacco smoking is the number one preventable cause of death in the U.S. and the primary cause of COPD and lung cancer. Tobacco cessation counseling is available at a variety of healthcare provider locations.
As we observe Men’s Health Month, below are some key observance days:
• June 10 – Family Health and Fitness Day
• June 12 to 18 – Men’s Health Week
• June 16 – Wear Blue Day
• June 18 – Father’s Day
• June 27 – National HIV Testing Day
Men’s Health is not just a “man’s issue,” it is a family issue. Men’s health impacts everyone around them.