| By Siyabonga Gema (HST Communications Officer) 
June is Men's Health Month, and it's more than just a calendar reminder — it's a call to action. Around the world, men face higher rates of heart disease, suicide, liver disease, and certain cancers, often due to a combination of biological, behavioural, and societal factors. Yet, far too many men delay or avoid medical care, leading to preventable complications and premature death. It's time to change that narrative. Men's health isn't just about hitting the gym or skipping the extra slice of pizza — it's about taking proactive steps to improve overall well-being: physically, mentally, and emotionally. Top Health Concerns for Men - Heart Disease
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death among men. High blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, and poor diet all contribute to the risk.
- Prevention tip: Regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, a heart-healthy diet, and exercise.
- Cancer
- Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, followed by lung and colorectal cancers.
- Prevention tip: Regular screenings (especially after age 50), avoiding tobacco, and knowing your family history.
- Mental Health and Suicide
- Men are less likely to seek help for depression or anxiety and are more likely to die by suicide.
- Prevention tip: Talk openly about mental health, seek therapy or counselling, and support others doing the same.
- Diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes is often undiagnosed until complications arise.
- Prevention tip: Maintain a healthy weight, eat balanced meals, and get regular screenings if you're at risk.
- Liver Disease and Substance Abuse
- Excessive alcohol use and hepatitis are major contributors.
- Prevention tip: Limit alcohol consumption and get vaccinated for hepatitis B.
The Power of Preventive Care Preventive health care is one of the most underutilised tools for men. Annual check-ups, blood tests, vaccinations, and cancer screenings can catch issues early, often before symptoms appear. Key annual check-ups include: - Blood pressure and cholesterol levels
- Blood glucose levels
- Testicular and prostate exams
- Skin checks for melanoma
- Mental health screenings
Start the Conversation Men's health awareness starts with you. Whether you're a father, son, partner, or friend, your health matters — not just for you, but for the people who count on you. Talk to your doctor. Support the men in your life. Share resources. Break the silence. Healthy men build strong families, strong communities, and stronger futures. For resources on men's health visit the Men's Health Network.
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