It’s hardly news that men are less likely to seek medical care than women, and men often die earlier than women and from preventable causes. National Men’s Health Week is June 9-15, the week leading up to Father’s Day this year. This annual observance is part of National Men’s Health Month, an annual month-long recognition to promote men’s health during June, whose purpose is to heighten awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.
The Men’s Health Week theme this year highlights the need to close the empathy gap in men’s health. Despite men dying on average 6 years earlier than women, men’s physical and mental health challenges remain underfunded and under-discussed. This year’s theme urges action through advocacy and awareness to address disparities in care, mental health, and education.
Men’s Health Week was first observed in 1994 following the passage of a Senate Joint Resolution to address disparities in men’s health outcomes and advocate for improved health education and awareness among men.
The recent announcement of former President Joe Biden’s prostate cancer diagnosis has brought attention to the need for prostate examinations and screenings. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer within their lifetime, with about 6 in 10 diagnosed in men 65 and older. There will be an estimated 313,780 new cases of prostate cancer and about 35,770 deaths from prostate cancer in 2025.
Regrettably, men’s health is often overlooked, and their symptoms are too often ignored. Men make up 92 percent of workplace deaths, mainly because they are employed in dangerous occupations. In 2023, there were 4,832 occupational injury deaths among men. These include fall-related fatalities for those working at heights in the construction industry.
Risks to men's health and well-being continue due to a lack of awareness and a failure to pursue preventive screening and care. Men are often the family breadwinners, and because of their jobs and lifestyles, they forget or postpone making their own health a priority.
Heart disease, cancer, and accidents are the leading causes of death in Alabama men, and there are lifestyle changes that can help lower risk. The following are some practical steps men can take to improve their health and stay healthy:
Some diseases and conditions may not have symptoms, so checkups can help diagnose health issues before they become problems. Men should pay special attention to signs and symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, excessive thirst, and problems with urination. If you have these or other symptoms, be sure to see your healthcare provider right away.
Men are less likely to seek help for mental health conditions, and the suicide rate for men in Alabama is far higher than the rate for women. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the suicide rate among males in 2023 was approximately four times higher than for women. To help find assistance in meeting mental health challenges, the CredibleMind platform is now available to Alabama residents by visiting alabama.crediblemind.com. This is a free, confidential, personalized, anonymous, and accessible self-care and mental well-being platform to support mental health.
During Men’s Health Month, I especially encourage men to support each other and take a proactive approach to their well-being. With their engagement and the support of their families, friends, and associates, we will have a healthier Alabama.
Scott Harris, M.D., M.P.H.
State Health Officer