Men’s Day, celebrated on March 19, 2025, in Colombia, is interwoven with the celebration of Saint Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus, and it emphasizes the significant roles men play in families and society. Unlike the International Men’s Day celebrated globally on November 19, Colombia’s version leans heavily on its religious connotations, centering on the values exemplified by Saint Joseph, which include dedication and responsibility in roles that men fulfill within their families.
In contrast, the International Men’s Day primarily focuses on promoting positive male role models, advocating for gender equality, and raising awareness about men’s health issues. This global observance originated in Trinidad and Tobago in 1999 and has since expanded to address various matters concerning the male population. On November 19, advocates aim to highlight the need for a healthier lifestyle among men, facing health challenges that often go unaddressed.
As of 2025, the male population in Colombia is estimated at around 25.92 million, which makes up nearly 48% of the country’s total population, according to the National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE). Significantly, men in Latin America have a life expectancy that is 7 to 8 years lower than that of women, largely due to untreated health conditions, including prostate cancer, which underscores the relevance of Men’s Day in fostering conversations around men’s health.
Moreover, men are at risk of various health problems. Heart problems, such as heart attacks and strokes, rank among the top ten male health concerns across the globe. According to Hamilton Health, two out of four men face a high risk of cardiovascular issues, which often stem from high blood pressure—a condition which can be detected early through regular checkups.
Additionally, the issue of prostate cancer warrants attention on this day. It occurs when the cells in the prostate gland, a unique male reproductive organ, grow uncontrollably, presenting symptoms that include difficulties in urination and pain in bones if left untreated.
Another condition affecting men's health is erectile dysfunction (ED), a growing concern that occurs when a man cannot achieve or maintain an erection. ED can often signal larger underlying health issues, such as cardiovascular diseases, linking it directly to the necessity for men to prioritize their health and well-being.
Statistically, mental health issues like depression also affect men. Although women tend to report higher rates of depressive episodes, approximately 6% of men experience significant depression annually. Unfortunately, they often do not receive help because their symptoms can manifest differently, often through anger rather than sadness.
In light of these health themes, Men’s Day serves as a platform not only to celebrate masculinity and fatherhood but also to urge men to take proactive steps toward their health. In Colombia, this celebration is marked by families gathering together, possibly embracing the spirit of appreciation and acknowledgment of the roles men play in their lives.
The intersection of health and celebration is further highlighted by the Movember movement, an international campaign that raises awareness about men’s health, particularly cancers like prostate and testicular cancer. During November, men grow mustaches to spark conversations and collect funds for men’s health research and mental health initiatives, aligning seamlessly with the mission of International Men’s Day.
As Colombia gears up to celebrate Men’s Day on March 19, many find it an ideal time to express affection and admiration for the important men in their lives, whether they are dads, partners, or friends. In many circles, it is customary to send messages of appreciation, noting how these men contribute positively to their communities and households.
For instance, families and couples might take the opportunity to convey heartfelt sentiments through special messages, turning the day into a moment of remembrance and celebration of the collective efforts of men. Simple yet meaningful messages can range from expressions of love to gratitude for their presence in life.
As the day approaches, discussions will likely emerge surrounding appropriate gifts and gestures to honor men without reinforcing negative stereotypes. Avoiding gifts that communicate unintended messages or adhere too strictly to traditional roles can help ensure that appreciation is conveyed genuinely. Personalized gifts that reflect individuality are preferred over generic items that may fail to resonate.
This dedicated day ultimately paints a broader picture of men's roles in society—how they navigate through health challenges while shaping familial and cultural values that define masculinity.
Men's Day is evolving; it continues to embrace a deeper awareness of health as a fundamental aspect of manhood while simultaneously celebrating the essence of being male in a nurturing environment. It emerges not just as a day of acknowledgment but also as an opportunity for men to put their health first, seek help, and foster better relationships in the process.
