Statistically speaking… men are dying six years earlier than women, largely due to preventable health issues.
As we mark the 30th anniversary of International Men’s Health Week, it’s an ideal moment to shine a light on the disparities in men’s health, the importance of regular check-ups, and—since it’s our specialty—a focus on diabetes awareness and management.
Despite progress in early diagnoses and advanced treatment options, many men still avoid routine healthcare, ignore symptoms, and delay treatment until the damage is done. In contrast, women are more likely to recognize changes in their health, discuss them openly, and seek medical advice early—often resolving issues before they become serious.
The reasons behind this gap are complex and culturally ingrained, but what’s clear is this: men’s health matters, and it’s time we start prioritizing it.
Staggering Stats: The State of Men’s Health
According to the CDC:
- 15% of men (18+) report being in poor or fair health
- 31% report binge drinking (5+ drinks in a day) at least once in the past year
- 72% fail to meet federal physical activity guidelines
- 20% use cigarettes or e-cigarettes
- 39% are classified as obese
- 51% have high blood pressure
These numbers are more than just statistics—they’re warnings. Many of these risk factors are interrelated and significantly increase the likelihood of developing or worsening conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, and cancer (including prostate and testicular cancer).
What Can Be Done? Practical Steps Toward Better Health
Good health doesn’t come from one habit—it comes from consistent, small decisions over time. Consider these simple but powerful steps:
✅ Schedule Regular Check-ups
Annual physicals and routine lab work help identify issues early, track progress on existing conditions, and fine-tune treatments. Preventive care isn’t just for when you’re sick—it’s the key to staying well.
🥗 Eat Well, Move More
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains supports long-term health.
Limit refined carbs—especially important if you’re managing diabetes—and stay hydrated.
Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week, as recommended by the NHS.
🧠 Support Mental Health
Men are often less likely to talk about mental health, but opening up can reduce isolation and increase resilience. Share your experiences with trusted friends or professionals—it helps more than you think.
🚭 Limit Alcohol and Avoid Tobacco
Smoking significantly increases the risk of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.
Alcohol is a depressant and can worsen mental health. Moderation is key.
🤝 Build Strong Relationships
Strong social connections improve emotional and mental wellbeing. Invest time in your relationships, join a group, or reconnect with old friends. Even spending time in nature can help—nature-based social activities have been shown to boost mental health and reduce loneliness (Smith, 2024).
Let’s Talk About It: Normalize the Conversation
By sharing this information and talking more openly about men’s health, we can reduce stigma and encourage early, proactive care. Men should feel empowered to take charge of their health—not wait until symptoms force them to act.
Take the First Step Today
This Men’s Health Week, make a commitment—for yourself or the men you care about.
✅ Schedule a check-up
✅ Go for a walk
✅ Start a conversation
Small steps can lead to a longer, healthier, happier life. Let’s make men’s health a priority—not just this week, but every week.
- Bertakis, K. D., Azari, R., Helms, L. J., Callahan, E. J., & Robbins, J. A. (2000). Gender differences in the utilization of health care services. The Journal of Family Practice, 49(2), 147–152. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10718692
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), National Center for Health Statistics. (2025, January 13). FastStats – Men’s health. https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mens-health.htm
- Men’s Health Network. (2025). June is National Men’s Health Month toolkit: June 2025. https://menshealthmonth.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Mens-Health-Month-Toolkit-2025-3.pdf
- Smith, J. (2024, March). The mental health benefits of nature: Spending time outdoors to refresh your mind. Mayo Clinic Press. https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/mental-health/the-mental-health-benefits-of-nature-spending-time-outdoors-to-refresh-your-mind/
