June is dedicated to Men’s Health awareness and education. Among the greatest dangers to Men’s health are heart disease, lung disease, alcohol related death, depression and suicide, accidents, and diabetes.
Men work hazardous, dangerous jobs. Cultural practices often discount men’s health and support unhealthy habits. Covid-19 caused more deaths, mental health issues, financial stress, and less medical help for men. Almost every country on Earth has health initiatives supporting women’s health issues, few address health initiatives for men.
Big Pharma created medications to treat the health threats listed above. Yet preventing disease isn’t a health initiative for men. Science shows most of these conditions can be avoided or risk greatly decreased through preventative measures including exercise, managing stress, regular health checks, and good nutrition.
The two greatest threats to men’s health are: lack of education and legislation in preventing disease and supporting men’s health. Why is there little focus on preventing problems impacting men’s health? The reasons are complex, but the solutions are simpler.
Let me share with you how education and legislation can be the catalysts for improved health for men:
First, start early to teach good health including exercise, nutrition, and asking for help. Teaching boys habits of a healthy lifestyle before becoming adults is powerful in preventing health problems. Parents and schools can teach these skills.
Second, societies need to proactively support Men’s health as preventing disease. Communities can promote health through sports, nutrition classes, and health clinics. Employers can create incentives to losing weight, getting more exercise, keeping tabs on cholesterol and other critical health indicators.
Third, countries can use legislation and funding to support men’s health initiatives. Accessible, affordable care for men and preventative screenings are key. National and local communities can support initiatives.
Fourth, men should evaluate their lifestyle and advocate for their health. Exercise, nutrition, mental health, social interaction, reducing stress, and getting regular health checkups to support good health. If bad habits are in place, replace with healthy habits. The women should support men’s health.
Finally, get involved in organizations, events, and groups that promote men’s health or health in general. These are great ways to raise awareness.
In conclusion, education and legislation can provide tools and supports to help men live longer and healthier lives. Promoting and supporting men’s health is benefit to the people in men’s lives and the communities they live in. Now is the time to act in supporting better health for men all over the world.
Works cited:
https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/mens-health/top-10-mens-health-concerns
https://www.everydayhealth.com/mens-health/awareness-month/
