Countdown To Men’s Health Month

What is Men’s Health Month?

Men’s Health Month began in order to bring awareness of preventable health issues and encourage early detection of certain diseases among men and boys. The hope is that health care providers, the media, and families are given the opportunity to encourage men to seek medical treatment and prioritize their own health and well-being.

Why is Men’s Health Month important?

On average, “American men live sicker and die younger than American women”. Why is this? There are a variety of reasons contributing to this “silent health crisis”. More men have have no healthcare coverage and men are more likely to have unhealthy lifestyles and engage in riskier behaviors. Additionally, while society continues to evolve, many men still adhere to outdated views of masculinity and are disinclined to asked for help, practice self-care, or see a doctor.

• On average, men die almost five years earlier than women.
• Men have a higher death rate for most of the leading causes of death, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, unintentional injuries, suicide, and homicide.
• Women are 100% more likely to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services than men.
• Men are four times as likely to commit suicide.
• Men have fewer infection-fighting T-cells and are thought to have weaker immune systems than women.
• One in two men are diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, compared to one in three women.

So what should you do this June?

• Call your doctor! If you haven’t been to the doctor in over a year, schedule a checkup and request any screenings or testing that might be overdue. Find men’s health resources here.
• Get moving! The days are getting longer and nice weather is finally here, so it’s a great time to get outside. Go for a thirty minute walk after dinner instead of turning on the TV. Do some yardwork or play with your kids outside. Consider taking up a sport or working towards a personal goal, like starting a Couch To 5K program.
• Find time to unwind. Stress affects your mental and physical health so it’s important to prioritize stress-alleviating activities. Whether it’s yoga, meditation, reading, or simply enjoying a mug of herbal tea in your backyard, take time for yourself.
• Eat healthful foods. It doesn’t have to be complicated or difficult. Fill your diet with the fruits and vegetables you enjoy, plenty of whole grains, good sources of protein, like eggs, beans, yogurt, or chicken, and lots of water.
• Don’t neglect your sexual health. If you suspect you have erectile dysfunction, contact The Natural Path. Erectile dysfunction can be caused by a variety of physical issues. By approaching your health in a holistic way, we’ll treat the root cause of your ED and not just the symptoms.

Healthy men live happy, longer lives. Don’t wait. Make your health a priority this June!

Categories: General Wellness, Mens Health