On average, men have shorter life expectancies than women, and women are 100% more likely to go to the doctor than men. These statistics are just one aspect of concern for men’s holistic health, but this month is time for change.
The problem
Men are more likely to
- get severely ill or die from COVID-19,
- smoke,
- drink, and
- miss annual doctor visits.
To further elevate these concerns, the top causes of death for men are mostly preventable with proper care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the top causes of death for men in the United States are
- heart disease,
- cancer,
- unintentional injuries,
- chronic lower respiratory disease, and
- stroke.
Many of these conditions can occur with little to no prior symptoms, which is why regular doctor visits are vital.
What you can do
Ensure you or someone you love don’t become a statistic. Follow the health tips below and encourage others to do the same in honor of Men’s Health Month.
- Follow CDC guidelines for COIVD-19 safety.
- Plan healthy meals.
- Start an exercise program.
- Quit smoking.
- Schedule an annual physical.
- Learn more about your medical history so you can get proper screenings.
Men can take control of their health by increasing their awareness of potential health concerns and proactively addressing them. For more help on where to start, visit the MedlinePlus Men’s Health page for education and more preventive steps. This month is the perfect time!
