HHS recognizes men’s health in June

HHS recognizes men’s health in June

BISMARCK, ND - North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) joins local public health partners, other health organizations, businesses, families and individuals in recognizing National Men’s Health Week. The national campaign aims to promote awareness, prevention, education and family involvement for the health and well-being of men. This year marks the 30th anniversary of National Men’s Health Week, which is celebrated June 10-16.

HHS is supporting awareness activities, hosting an educational lunch and learn event and sharing ideas on how men can lead longer, healthier lives. Improving men’s health supports HHS’s vision to make North Dakota the healthiest state in the nation.

According to the HHS men’s health dashboard, a male’s life expectancy at birth is 7.5 years less than a female’s in North Dakota. Men are also less likely to seek physical and behavioral health care and experience higher rates of death from heart disease, cancer, diabetes and suicide.

North Dakotans can help raise the profile of men’s health on June 14, which has been designated Wear Blue Day by the Men’s Health Network. Individuals and organizations can participate and show support by wearing blue and posting photos on social media using #ShowUsYourBlue and #WearBlue.

HHS encourages men to take action to prioritize their health so they can enjoy longer, healthier lives and offers these strategies:

• Go to regular health checkups and screenings and ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations like tetanus and MMR.
• Take care of mental health by managing stress and asking for help. Individuals in crisis can call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline any day, any time for support.
• Eat healthy foods, exercise regularly and get enough sleep.
• Avoid drug and alcohol misuse and smoking.
• Discuss health openly and actively take steps to enhance well-being.

"One thing we can all do to improve the health of the men around us is to start talking intentionally about it,” shares HHS Community Engagement Coordinator Hayden Kemp. “With our upcoming HHS Men’s Health Lunch and Learn, we hope to start these conversations and provide insight from health professionals on key topics and common questions. Encourage the men in your life to be proactive and informed about their health.”

Individuals can join the HHS Men’s Health Lunch and Learn online at https://bit.ly/4baGkC0 on Tuesday, June 25, 12-1 p.m., CT.

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