June is Men’s Health Month, focused on “encouraging boys, men, and their families to practice and implement healthy living decisions,” according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health.

In the U.S., on average, men die 5 years earlier than women and die at higher rates from heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries. Every year:

• 450,000 men die of cardiovascular disease
• More than 700,000 men are diagnosed with cancer
  • Nearly 43% of these cases result in death
  • 230,000 of these cases are prostate cancer – the second leading cause of death in men

Furthermore, the Cleveland Clinic conducted a survey on over 500 American men and found:

• 3 out of 5 men get annual physicals
• 40% of men only go to the doctor when they think they have a serious medical condition
• More than half of men said their health wasn’t something they talk about

Physical health isn’t the only area of worry for men in the U.S. Although women are 4 times more likely than men to attempt suicide, nearly 4 times as many men die by suicide. In fact, the highest suicide rates in the United States are found in Caucasian men over the age of 85.

Many mental health researchers link these disproportionate statistics to two distinct factors – men tend to use more lethal means to attempt suicide and men don’t seek psychological care as often as women.

These statistics are shocking. So, what can you do to reduce your risk of these health problems and other common diseases among men? Men’s Health Month suggests you:

• Get early screenings
  • This includes screenings for various cancers, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, etc.
• Exercise regularly
  • The American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, but anything you can squeeze into your schedule is great!
• Maintain a healthy diet
  • A general rule to follow is to ensure you have protein, healthy fats, and carbs in each of your meals
• Listen to your body
  • If you suspect something may be wrong, check in with a doctor.
• Get the recommended vaccines
  • Staying on top of your recommended vaccines helps prevent and lessen the effects of many diseases
• Always use sunscreen
• Take your medication as directed
• If you’re sick, see a doctor

You can use social media to share education and awareness about men’s health issues. Help spread the message by using the hashtags: #MensHealthMonth and #ShowUsYourBlue

Don’t forget, Father’s Day is coming up later this month! Gift your father with the knowledge that will educate him about risks and his health!