International Men’s Health Week, developed every year, highlights the necessity of caring for the population of men globally. During the specified week, individuals across the world are supposed to become more informed about major health concerns and be encouraged to prevent and stop the presence of severe, needless health issues. This paper considers the meaning of International Men’s Health Week, emphasizes major health concerns related to males, and offers certain recommendations on how men’s health can be improved.
Definition
History and Purpose
The International Men’s Health Week is celebrated in the week preceding and including Father’s Day. It is primarily developed to accentuate health challenges to be addressed across the male population. As a reminder-type event, this week encourages all men to actively preserve and improve their health while also being exposed to information about how health conditions can be prevented and what can be done to live a healthier life.
Global Events/Organizations
Internationally, Men’s Health Week is celebrated through various activities and events. However, the format of the week’s events is different across countries. Some of the typical types of events concerning this week include local health screenings, health-learning seminars, men’s health fairs, other community events, talks on men’s health on TV, radio, and in print media, as well as notable comedies, dramas, and documentaries. Sometimes, various campaigns emphasizing the conditions of men’s lives, their health, and major health challenges that are widespread among men and not fully recognized by them are developed and launched throughout the week. For practical information, refer to Owh.org.au.
Men’s Health
prostate health
While many men do not want to think about their prostates, prostate health, especially benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer, is an important issue. Periodic screenings and discussions with primary care physicians about prostate health can help ensure it is properly managed or detected early to facilitate the most effective treatment.
Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is an increasingly frequent condition for men, which is often associated with obesity, a bad diet, and a sedentary lifestyle. Men who are predisposed to diabetes can prevent its development through a healthy weight management program. However, individuals with diabetes can manage the condition primarily with weight management, good nutrition, and regular physical activity.
Sexual Health
Erectile dysfunction and sexually transmitted infections are common problems for many men, and they can manifest significant health. Men must be able to openly discuss sexual health issues with their partners and healthcare providers and receive regular screenings.
Practical Tips for Men’s Health
Balanced Diet
A diet that includes fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins and fats is healthy over all. Men should consume less processed foods, sugary drinks, and salt quantities to prevent chronic diseases and maintain a healthy weight.
Regular Physical Activity
Men should exercise regularly to maintain good cardiovascular health, prevent weight gain, and keep their minds sharp. Men should have at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity with muscle-strengthening physical activity. Practice relaxation methods to minimize stress, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, meditation, or talking with a capable healthcare professional. Build good communication with family and social life and get some emotional support. Make regular cardiovascular and other tests. At least once a year the blood pressure and cholesterol levels should be checked. Regular prostate examinations are instructed from the age of 50.
Dangerous Habits
It is crucial to understand that smoking and substantial alcohol drinking can cause many illnesses. Consequently, it is essential to quit these terrible habits. During this week, people should provide support to one another to quit smoking and to decrease drinking alcohol. Raising Awareness
Community
One of the activities is taking part in the community events held during International Men’s Health Week. Regarding the community initiatives, spreading the information amongst the interested people is possible.
Education
In addition, this week can be used as an opportunity to learn more about the health issues in men. People should raise the information via social media and other resources.
Environments
Apart from alcohol and smoking, which are dangerous for men, there should be proper environments such as their homes, workplaces, or friends that let men feel comfortable sharing information about their well-being. Resources
Health Departments and Organisations
First and foremost, during that week, it is advisable to look for some information regarding health issues in men on the official websites of the Men’s Health Network, American Heart Association, or other respectable organizations and health departments.
Online
There is no other way but to use the internet. Therefore, it is essential to enter the websites and forums related to men’s health, download applications to the smartphone, and order some health consultations online. Conclusion
As can be seen, International Men’s Health Week is a unique opportunity to focus on men’s health all over the world. Consequently, everyone can act to improve the situation with men’s health. Understanding the main features of men’s health issues, starting a healthier life, and raising awareness is essential.
