June - Men's Health Awareness Month
June marks Men's Health Awareness Month; a dedicated time to spotlight preventable health conditions and inspire men to actively protect their physical, mental, and spiritual health. Men are less likely than women to seek preventive care or timely treatment, resulting in later diagnoses and more challenging management of serious health conditions. The leading causes of death among men are heart disease, cancer, accidents, stroke, chronic lung disease, and diabetes. Many of these can be better managed or prevented with regular care and early detection.
Key Areas of Men's Health
Cardiovascular Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men in the United States. Consistently checking blood pressure, monitoring cholesterol, maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding tobacco products support cardiovascular health and reduce risk.
Cancer Screening
Early detection is important. Men are encouraged to discuss age-appropriate cancer screenings with their healthcare provider, including those for colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer when personal risk factors apply.
Diabetes Prevention and Management
More than 38 million Americans live with diabetes, and some may remain undiagnosed. Choosing a healthy diet, staying physically active, and monitoring blood sugar levels as recommended helps prevent health complications.
Mental Health Matters
Mental health matters as much as physical well-being. Men sometimes feel pressure to remain silent about stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or emotional struggles, which can lead to isolation or delayed care. Reaching out for help shows wisdom and strength and supports a healthy, fulfilling life.
- Schedule your annual exam and track key health numbers.
- Complete your recommended screenings.
- Aim for 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, eat a balanced diet and prioritize quality sleep.
- Avoid tobacco, limit alcohol, seek support when needed, and spend time in prayer and reflection.
As men of faith, you are called to lead, serve, and care for those entrusted to you. You are best able to fulfill those responsibilities by intentionally caring for your own health. Investing in your physical, emotional, and spiritual wellness today enables you to care for your family, church, and community for years to come.
Wishing all the men of the SJMB Church family a healthy and blessed Men's Health Awareness Month.
- Toronsa M. Simpson, MBA, MSN, APRN, FNP-C