There is no better time of year to support the men in your life by encouraging them to focus on their health. When it comes to a healthier body and mind, prevention is critical. Many of the risk factors for disease are preventable. Learning what to look for and what changes to make, can help lower those risks.
We encourage men especially to take control of their health because in general, men are less likely to take care of themselves and their health than women. Men are half as likely to visit the doctor for a check-up as women are, and there are over 7 million American men who have not seen a doctor in over 10 years1 . A Cleveland Clinic survey in 2019 found that 82% of men report trying to stay healthy and live longer for those who rely on them, yet only 50% engage in preventive care. Men said they were embarrassed, it was inconvenient, and they did not want to hear a bad diagnosis, and being told as children not to complain about medical problems as reasons for pushing off a visit to their health care provider2. Partly as a result of dedicating less time to their personal health, male life expectancy is about 5 years less than women.
HEALTHIER MEN LIVE HAPPIER, LONGER LIVES.
Now, in 2020 and the new decade, it is time for that to change. Men of every age need to be taking the time to focus on their mental and physical well-being. From 19 to 90, even if he is in “perfect” shape, a man should still be making routine appointments with his providers. There are several times in his life a man should be getting routine appointments with his health care providers to ensure that he is maintaining good health. Men are not invincible and should be engaging with their providers on a regular basis. Regular check-ups and appointments mean taking responsibility for your health and well-being. Get started today by taking a mental health screening. It only takes a few minutes and it’s free!
THIS DECADE, LET’S DECIDE TO DEDICATE MORE TIME AND FOCUS ON OUR HEALTH!
- Brott, A., & Men’s Health Network Advisory Board.
- Blueprint for Men’s Health: A Guide to a Healthy Lifestyle. Washington, D.C