June is Men’s Health Month, and this Father’s Day weekend is the perfect time to reflect on the unique health risks that might affect you or the men in your life.
Men in the U.S. are expected to live about six years fewer than women. There are many reasons for this difference, but some of the most pressing concerns are heart disease and mental health issues.
Men are more likely to experience heart disease and to develop it earlier in life than women. Heart disease includes many conditions, such as heart attacks, coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, arrhythmia and heart failure.
Risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity. Fortunately, you can reduce your risk of heart disease by quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, managing stress and knowing your numbers.
Men are also more likely to die by suicide than women. If you’re experiencing poor mental health, talk to friends, family or a medical professional. Know that it’s okay to talk about mental health, and you’re not alone.
It’s also important to listen to the men in your life and support them if they reach out to you. Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7.
Men are much less likely than women to see a doctor regularly and stay up to date on routine health screenings, so encourage them to schedule their annual physical and stay up to date on tests for prostate cancer and colorectal cancer so their health can be maintained and any issues can be identified early on.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
