June is National Men's Health Month

Throughout June, Men's Health Month aims to encourage boys and men to take charge of their overall health by implementing healthy living decisions such as eating right, exercising, and working to prevent disease. Research and studies continue to show a significant difference in men's health compared to women's. While these differences are often associated with certain behaviors, it also helps pinpoint major issues that must be addressed. In addition, preventive visits are essential to improving everyone's health, regardless of age or gender.

When did Men's Health Month come about?

The observance of Men's Health Month started in 1992 by the Men's Health Network. They wanted to educate men and women about diseases and problems that affect men at higher rates than women. There are many ways to support Men's Health Month and the mission of the Men's Health Network. The month is dedicated to enriching men's health and wellness through a broad spectrum of national screening and educational campaigns.

Don't be reluctant to visit a doctor.

Did you know that men, on average, are more likely to go through life-threatening conditions than women? Part of the reason is that men are more reluctant to go to the doctor, according to menshealthmonth.org. Statistics show that women are 33% more likely to visit their doctor and 100% better at maintaining screening and preventive services than men. 

Let's talk numbers 

The World Health Organization (WHO) discovered a striking gender-based gap in the health risks related to certain behaviors and habits. For example, 54% of men reported being a current drinker (alcohol) compared to 32% of women. In addition, 34% of men over the age of 15 reported regular tobacco use compared to just 6% of women over the same age. Diet plays a role as well. A Massachusetts survey reported that women were about 50% more likely than men to meet the goal of eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Poor eating habits put men at a higher risk of cardiovascular diseases.

What is another reason men may be more at risk?

Men are also more likely to have higher-risk occupations such as construction, driving, mining, police officer, firefighter, and the military, where workplace injuries occur. 

How can I support Men's Health Month?

You can support the Men's Health Month mission in many ways. Using #MensHealthMonth and #ShowUsYourBlue on any social media platform is encouraged. The week of June 13th is National Men's Health Week, so you can plan activities focusing on the men's health in your life. You can also organize a "Wear Blue" day. Wear Blue is an organization the Men's Health Network created to create awareness about common men's health issues. June 17th is Wear Blue for Men's Mental Health Day to bring awareness to the mental health issues that many men are facing. However, you can wear blue throughout the month to show the men in your life that you support them. Reducing the stigma around men seeking help for both physical and mental health issues is one of the main purposes of Men's Health Month, so do what you can to encourage the men around you to retire any reluctance about addressing any problems they are facing. 

Here are eight simple ways for guys to celebrate Men's Health Month and improve their well-being:

1. Exercise regularly:

Walk, run, bike, hike, swim, or play sports. Find something you enjoy that gets your heart pumping for 30 minutes daily.

 2. See your doctor:

Stay on top of your health, medical issues, and recommended screenings! It can be difficult to remember concerns or questions, so a great tip is to write any health questions down and take the list to your appointment.

 3. Get cooking:

Plan and cook healthy meals with your family. Shop for ingredients from your local store or farmer's market and make it a family event.

4. Spend quality time with family:

Turn off the screens and spend time catching up while you go for a walk, play cards, or get out of an old favorite family board game.

 5. Educate yourself:

Health fairs and physician-led community talks are great ways to learn about important topics like blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate and colon cancer, and maintaining a healthy weight. Check out the event calendar for your local hospital, clinic, or church.

 6. Get some rest:

A good night's sleep is essential and can improve health and wellness. Getting 8 hours of sleep can help your mind and body recover after a long day. Set a nightly bedtime for yourself and do your best to stick with it.

 7. Try something new:

Sign up for a yoga class to increase flexibility, or try meditation to deal with stress. Join an intramural sports team in your community. Pick up that instrument you've always wanted to play. Learning new things will not only make you feel good about yourself but has been proven to slow the effects normal aging can have on the brain.

 8. Inspire others:

It's easy to start new programs, but it can be difficult to keep the momentum going. So include friends and family in your plans and activities, and encourage each other as you venture on to a healthier future together.