A Focus on MEN’S HEALTH

Each year in June for Men’s Health Month, the HHS Office of Minority Health (OMH) encourages boys and men to take charge of their overall health by incorporating better lifestyle habits. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 13.2% of men aged 18 and over are in fair or poor health. While this number may seem low, when you dive deeper into the statistics, some of the same diseases and conditions that impact women also severely impact men and can even put them at higher risk. For example, hypertension (the condition of having high blood pressure) affects both men and women.

However, men are at higher risk for it to be more uncontrolled and have more elevated numbers. From 2015-18, 50.7% of men had hypertension, a condition that can lead to more serious health issues if not addressed. Additionally, people who were assigned male at birth and identify as gay or bisexual may face different health issues such as HIV and mpox (formerly known as monkeypox).

Top Health Risks For Men

Heart Disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for men in the U.S. It is known as a “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms. Drinking too much alcohol, lack of physical activity, and a diet high in saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol can increase a person’s risk of heart disease.

Cancer

While many forms of cancer affect men, prostate cancer is the most common. Many men who develop this form of cancer never experience symptoms. This is why getting screened and early detection is key.

Diabetes

About 52.3 million adult males have prediabetes in the U.S. and more men than women have diabetes that is undiagnosed. While diabetes increases a person’s risk of heart disease, it can be prevented by eating a balanced diet, getting regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Dr. David Holder

CCI’s Gaithersburg Medical Director

Ask A Cci Clinician

HOW CAN WE BETTER SUPPORT MEN’S HEALTH?

As a community, we should put an emphasis on male health issues such as vitality, the importance of exercise, and the priming of memory and cognition. These concepts can be communicated through subtle shifts in language and an organization's marketing efforts. We must show that we care about men throughout their lifespans and emphasize issues important to them as they grow and mature.

WHAT 3 THINGS CAN MEN DO RIGHT NOW TO TAKE CONTROL OF THEIR HEALTH?

1. See health as a means to maintain your ability.

2. Take the initiative to care for oneself.

3. Visit your primary care provider early on . . . Don’t wait!