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Did you know that the average U.S. female outlives the average U.S. male by five years? Right from the start, boys suffer more illness, more accidents, and die earlier than their female counterparts – and this isn’t just the case in the states. 

Men’s Health Week is celebrated every year across the globe in June. It is an opportunity to highlight men’s health and what it means to be healthy. Through a series of promotions, events, and publicity during this international week, Men’s Health Week is designed to provoke thought and discussion about ways to improve male health. 

In recognition of this important week, consider the following 5 activities to help celebrate and advocate for men’s health. 

1. Dry week Men are more likely to use tobacco products and alcohol than women. Both tobacco and alcohol increase one’s risk of cancer greatly–including cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, liver, colon, rectum, and breast. Encourage the men in your life to join you in a dry week, or a week free of tobacco and alcohol, in recognition of Men’s Health Week.
2. Know the recommended screening schedule The rate of recovery from cancer is significantly increased by early detection. Periodic health appraisals, screening tests, and self-examinations may detect cancer early–and even save a life. The National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) has compiled recommended guidelines for cancer detection. Review the guidelines, share them with those around you, and – if recommended – get screened!
3. Try a cancer-fighting recipe Research suggests approximately 30-40% of cancer diagnoses can be prevented by modest diet and lifestyle changes. NFCR encourages eating nourishing foods with anti-cancer properties backed by research. Try a new recipe each day of the week, or simply try adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet. 
4. Plan a fundraiser! Use your time and talents to raise critical funds to accelerate research that can improve men’s health. Whether it is for cancer, mental health, or another area of concern. NFCR supporters have used fundraising initiatives across the globe through sports, music, the arts, gaming, and more. Learn how to get started fundraising or easily start a Facebook Fundraiser here. 
5. Remove the stigma around mental health While incidents of mental health tend to be lower in men than women, they are also less likely to seek treatment, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Mental health is as important as physical health and should not be ignored. Reducing stress, dealing with trauma, and working through life events are all important and no one has to do it alone — including men. Break the taboo by having open conversations about mental health with the men in your life. 

How will you commit to your health this week? 

Additional Reads You May Enjoy:

National Men’s Health Week

Man Up: June Is Men’s Health Month

Testicular Cancer Awareness Month – Reinventing What It Means to “Man Up”

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