June is recognized globally as Men's Health Month, an important opportunity to highlight and address the unique challenges that men face.

In this article, we’ll explore these concepts and dive into key statistics that shed light on the current state of men's health. We’ll also discuss practical tips and habits for healthy living and highlight important screenings for different age groups. 

Whether you’re a devoted partner, a loving parent, or someone wanting to improve your own health, we hope to give you some valuable insights and guidance to support the well-being of the men in your life.  

Here's Why Men's Health Matters

Looking at the numbers, we can understand just how important it is to focus on all aspects of men’s health. 

Overall, men have a shorter life expectancy than women and a 41% higher mortality rate. This disparity is not only due to higher rates of heart disease, cancer, stroke, and diabetes, but also behavioral differences. For instance, men are more likely to smoke and take life-altering risks.

Prostate cancer, projected to be the most common cancer among men in the U.S. in 2023 with an estimated 288,300 new cases, is a major health concern, especially for older men. Despite significant health risks like obesity-related cardiovascular disease, only 60% of men get annual checkups, and over half rarely discuss their health.

There’s no simple solution to these complicated issues. But by raising awareness and taking proactive steps, we can work to improve the quality of life for all men and ensure that our sons, husbands, and fathers lead healthier and happier lives.

Healthy Habits: Strategies For A Better Quality Of Life

So, what can we do to support the men who mean the most to us? Here are a few practical tips and habits to help them lead healthier, happier lives.

Encourage Regular Check-Ups

Routine visits to the doctor are essential for catching potential health issues early. Be sure to encourage the men in your life to schedule annual check-ups and screenings (more on that later).

Exercise Together

Physical activity is essential for maintaining good health and longevity. Try finding fun ways to stay active together, whether it’s going for a walk, biking, or even joining a fitness class. Studies show that regular exercise can improve heart health, boost mood, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Promote A Healthy & Balanced Diet

A nutritious diet plays a huge role in preventing a number of men’s health issues, especially later on in life. Incorporate fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains into daily meals to ensure a balanced intake of essential nutrients. 

Help Them Establish Healthy Habits

Self-care is the key to managing daily stress and anxiety. Try encouraging positive habits, such as going easy on alcohol and drugs, staying active, and maintaining a healthy social life as part of their self-care routine.

Ensure A Good Night’s Sleep

Sleep plays a huge role in overall health, helping with muscle repair, cognitive ability, and overall mood. Aim for 7-9 hours each night, and try establishing a relaxing nighttime routine by reducing screen time before bed and creating a comfortable sleep environment.

Support Mental Wellness

Be sure to let the men in your life know that it’s okay to open up about their struggles. Oftentimes, they’ll just appreciate having someone to talk to. If additional support is needed, consider helping them seek out a mental health professional. 

Recommended Screenings For Men By Age Group

Preventive health screenings play a huge role in detecting potential health issues early. Here’s what experts suggest for different age groups. 

(Bold indicates screenings specific to age group)

Young Men (18 - 39)

• Physical Exam: Blood pressure, obesity, body composition, testicular exam, etc. 
• Metabolic Screening: Blood sugar and lipid profile based on risk and family history
• Vaccines: Influenza, COVID-19m Hepatitis A/B, HPV, Tdap, MMR, etc.
• STI Screening: HIV, hepatitis B/C, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, etc.
• Assessment of Risky Behaviors: Use of tobacco, alcohol, recreational drugs, anabolic steroids, as well as use of seatbelts and helmets and gun safety
• Family Planning: Preparing for healthy conception and pregnancy 

Adults Over 40

• Physical Exam: Blood pressure, obesity, body composition, prostate exam, etc.
• Metabolic Screening: Blood sugar, lipid profile, estimation of cardiovascular risk
• Vaccines: COVID-19m Hepatitis A/B, HPV, Tdap, MMR, etc.
• STI Screening: HIV, hepatitis B/C, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, etc.
• Cardiovascular Screening: Based on risk and symptoms, may include stress testing or coronary artery calcium score
• Cancer Screening: May include prostate, colon and lung cancer screening as well as skin exam (based on family history and personal risks)

Adults Over 65

• Physical Exam: Blood pressure, obesity, body composition, prostate exam, etc.
• Metabolic Screening: Blood sugar, lipid profile, thyroid function in some cases
• Vaccines: Influenza, COVID-19, hepatitis A/B, Tdap, Pneumovax/Prevnar, shingles, etc.
• STI Screening: Based on risk
• Cardiovascular Screening: Abdominal ultrasound, coronary artery calcium score and stress testing based on risk and symptoms.
• Cancer Screening: May include prostate, colon and lung cancer screening as well as skin exam
• Osteoporosis: Height loss, low impact fracture, fall risk assessment

Final Thoughts

Once again, it’s important to recognize that men's health means so much more than just physical wellness; it also includes nurturing mental and emotional well-being, which are essential for a truly balanced life.

Open discussions about men’s health go a long way in challenging the stigmas that often prevent them from seeking help when they need it most.

After all, our commitment to understanding and enhancing men's health doesn't just end with June. It’s a lifelong journey to support the men in our lives who mean the most to us.