June is Men’s Health Month
Heighten Awareness of Health Problems in Men
On average, men die five years younger than women, and die at higher rates from nine of the top 10 causes of death.
Men are also less likely than women to be insured. All of this impacts their ability to be involved fathers, supportive partners, and engaged community members.
Men die at higher rates from the three leading causes of death; heart disease, cancer and unintentional injuries.
During Men’s Health Month, we encourage men to take control of their health, and for families to teach young boys healthy habits throughout childhood.
Here are 5 Tips to Help with Men’s Health from the Department of Health & Human Services.
1. Protect the Heart
Heart disease is the number 1 killer of men. Healthier food choices build a healthier heart – make fruits and vegetables half your plate!
2. Exercise
We know this comes up a lot, but getting just 30 minutes of exercise each day can help you live longer and healthier.
3. Preventative Maintenance
Getting regular check-ups can catch small problems before they become big problems. Go in for a check-up every year.
4. Quitting Time
Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, and even a greater risk of erectile disfunction.
5. Mental Health
Life can get tough, and thinking things through with a mental health professional can help.
Let’s Start with Dad
There are quite a few things you can do to help dad as Father’s Day nears—and even more that all of us can do to help men all year.
Encourage him to get a physical
Most of the factors that contribute to men’s shorter, less healthy lives are preventable. And that prevention starts with seeing a healthcare provider on a regular basis.
Encourage him to get physical
The benefits of physical activity on health are extensive, and many people find it difficult to get motivated on their own. Rather than simply telling your dad to exercise and then hoping that he will, do it with him.
Let him know you care
One reason men disregard their own health is that they’re too busy taking care of everyone else. What they don’t realize, however, is that if they die early, they’ll be hurting the very people they’ve worked so hard to protect.