Men's Health Matters: Taking Charge of Your Health this National Men's Health Month

June is National Men's Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about health issues affecting men while encouraging men and boys to take charge of their health by implementing healthy living decisions that will affect their overall well-being.

The Dude Doesn’t Necessarily Abide

"It's no coincidence that National Men's Health Month is in June, the month we associate with Father's Day," said Chief Clinical Officer for Health Network One, Dr. Edward Cabrera, "Let's use both to remind the men in our lives to take time out to focus on their health needs. Research shows that men often neglect their health, typically having lower rates of preventative care and higher rates of chronic disease and mortality than women."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men are more likely to engage in risky health behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and not wearing seat belts, which can lead to serious health consequences.?

"Men are less likely to visit their doctors for preventative check-ups and screenings and may delay seeking medical attention for symptoms of illness," said Dr. Cabrera. "This is concerning because many health conditions like heart disease, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and osteoporosis disproportionately affect men and can be prevented or managed with early detection and intervention."

Regular doctor visits and screenings are critical for early detection and intervention. National Men's Health Month provides an opportunity to remind men to take charge of their health and seek the care they need to prevent and manage chronic disease.

Man Up – 5 Steps to a Healthier You

Schedule regular check-ups: Men should make it a priority to visit their healthcare providers for regular check-ups and preventative screenings, including blood pressure and cholesterol tests, prostate exams, and colorectal cancer screenings. These screenings can help detect health issues early when they are more easily treatable.

Adopt healthy lifestyle habits: Men should aim to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, and avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These lifestyle habits can help prevent chronic disease and improve overall health and well-being.

Seek mental health support: Men should prioritize their mental health and seek support if they are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress. This can include talking to a mental health professional, joining a support group, or practicing stress-reducing techniques such as mindfulness or yoga.

Prioritize sleep: Men should aim for 7-9 hours per night to support their overall health and well-being. Poor sleep can contribute to various health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

Stay informed: Men should stay informed about their health by reading reputable health information sources to help them make better decisions about their health and well-being.

Guys, Take Charge of Your Health

By taking proactive steps toward their health and wellness, men can improve their overall quality of life and prevent chronic diseases. National Men's Health Month serves as a reminder to prioritize health and well-being, not just in June but throughout the year. Join Health Network One in encouraging the men in our lives to prioritize their health and take the necessary steps to prevent and manage health issues.