International Men’s Health Month: Prioritizing Men’s Wellness
International Men’s Health Month: Prioritizing Men’s Wellness
June 22, 2023
Does this sound familiar?
“I can’t remember the last time my husband went to the doctor.” or “My dad keeps putting off his annual exam.”
A recent study by the Cleveland Clinic showed that nearly two-thirds of men avoid going to the doctor as long as possible and 72% said they would rather do household chores like cleaning toilets than see their doctor.
While we might tease our dads about being too stubborn to see a doctor, the sentiment behind it is no laughing matter. We want our loved ones to be as healthy as possible for as long as possible, which means changing the narrative around men’s health.
The Gender Gap
It’s with this in mind that the month of June is designated as “International Men’s Health Month.” The goal of this month is to inspire men to live healthier lives and prioritize their wellbeing.
According to statistics, Canadian men live an average of four years less than women. While the average life expectancy has steadily increased for both sexes over the last century, this gap remains. Men also have a lower health expectancy; the number of years they can expect to live in good health is lower than women’s.
Prevention is Key
Studies show that a whopping 70% of men’s health problems are caused by lifestyle rather than genetics. This number is both alarming and comforting; alarming because it means men are suffering needlessly, but comforting because it means change is possible.
Below, we look at three of the most common health issues men face:
Heart Disease
There are a number of diseases of the heart, which affect different areas or functions of the muscle. Blood vessel disease, irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias), disease of the muscle itself, and heart valve disease are among the most common.
While it is the number one cause of death in both men and women, men are statistically at greater risk of heart disease and of developing it earlier than women. As much as 80% of heart disease is preventable and earlier diagnosis leads to better outcomes.
It is recommended that you have your cholesterol and blood pressure checked regularly beginning at age 25. With regular checkups, lifestyle modifications, and medication, the risk of heart disease can be decreased.
Prostate Cancer
One of the most common cancers, it’s estimated that 67 Canadian men are diagnosed with Prostate Cancer each day. While that number is frightening, there is some comfort in knowing that most forms of the cancer are slow-growing and remain confined to the prostate. Since 1995, the death rate of prostate cancer has been cut in half and the five-year survival rate is now at 91%. As with heart disease, early detection leads to more favourable outcomes, catching the disease before it has spread outside of the prostate—another reason men’s annual checkups are imperative.
Diabetes
There are two separate types of Diabetes. Diabetes I is believed to be caused by an autoimmune reaction that leads the immune system to attack and destroy insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The body is not able to produce insulin. This type of Diabetes is not caused by diet and lifestyle and is usually detected in childhood.
In Diabetes II, the body is unable to use insulin the way it should and/or does not produce enough insulin. Also known as “Adult-Onset Diabetes,” it is usually diagnosed after the age of 45, and men have a five percent greater incidence of the disease. This type of Diabetes is much more common than Diabetes I, and while your family history and ethnic background put you at a greater risk for Diabetes II, a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk.
There are many complications that arise from Diabetes, some of the most common of which are vision problems, nerve damage, heart disease, kidney disease, and foot problems.
While there is no cure for Diabetes II, it is possible that symptoms can be reversed to a point where medication is no longer needed to manage the condition. With a well-balanced diet and lifestyle, men can mitigate their risk of developing the condition.
June is International Men’s Health Month
International Men’s Health Month is a great opportunity to let the men in our lives know that their mental and physical health is important and that their wellbeing needs to be prioritized. Thankfully, organizations like Canadian Men’s Health Foundation are working to help men live healthier lives. The organization has created an online resource “Don’t Change Much,” that serves as an inspiration with tools, resources, and education to empower men to start their own journey to better health.
How Can Home Care Improve Men’s Wellbeing?
Home care services play a significant role in supporting and enhancing men’s health and wellbeing by providing customized assistance in the comfort and safety of their own homes. Some common ways Just Like Family commonly provides support include:
Transportation assistance
We make it easy to get to your medical appointments by providing assistance as needed. Whether you simply need a driver or require help in and out of the vehicle and/or support at your appointment, we are here to help.
Rehabilitation and post-hospitalization recovery
Our caregivers will assist with activities of daily living, promoting faster healing. We will also help you follow recommendations for physical activity.
Dietary support
A healthy diet is crucial in disease prevention and management. Our caregivers can offer guidance on nutrition, meal planning, and preparation, taking into account specific dietary needs and goals. They can also assist with grocery shopping and meal delivery services, ensuring men have access to nutritious meals.
When it comes to supporting men’s health, Just Like Family Home Care is here to help. This month, let’s join together to encourage the men in our lives to prioritize their wellbeing so they can live longer, healthier lives. If you have questions about how we can support you and your loved ones, please reach out anytime!