November marks the time of year when men’s upper lips across the country are adorned with mustaches, signaling the annual "Movember" movement—a campaign aimed at raising awareness about significant health issues affecting men. This observance isn't just about facial hair; it serves as a poignant reminder to focus on men's health topics ranging from heart disease and cancer to mental health and injury prevention, according to the Pima County Health Department.
Statistics reveal troubling trends: men, on average, die six years earlier than women. It's not about bravado or machismo; it largely stems from men being less likely to seek medical advice. This month aims to change those behaviors, encouraging proactive health measures. Heart disease is still the leading cause of death for men, accounting for nearly 25% of male fatalities. Alarmingly, about half of those who succumb suddenly to heart disease exhibited no prior symptoms.
Lee Itule-Klasen, Senior Program Manager for the Office of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention, stresses the importance of regular health check-ups, particularly blood pressure measurements, emphasizing its effectiveness as a preventative measure against heart ailments. Itule-Klasen urges men, especially those over 50, to discuss risks and screening options with healthcare providers to catch potentially deadly conditions early.
Cancer is another major concern for men's health. Prostate and lung cancers rank high among the leading causes of death within Arizona's male population. Around 15% of male smokers contribute to the sobering statistic where tobacco use claims approximately 12,400 lives annually in Arizona alone. Help is available through local resources such as the Arizona Smokers Helpline.
Addressing mental health remains one of the more challenging but equally important aspects of men's wellness. The higher rates of suicide among men compared to women highlight the urgent need for intervention. Local crisis lines and the national suicide hotline can provide immediate support to those battling mental health issues. It's imperative for men experiencing crises or suicidal thoughts to reach out for help.
Accidents rank as the third leading cause of male deaths. Encouraging regular exercise can significantly lower the risk of accidental injuries and help maintain muscle strength and balance as men age. Awareness around fall prevention is also increasingly recognized as key to promoting health among men.
Nutrition is another pressing issue; studies show nine out of ten men fail to meet the daily recommended servings of fruits and vegetables, resulting in statewide struggles against obesity. Arizona also ranks high for reported cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Men are urged to take precautions, practice safe sex, and get regularly tested.
To carry the spirit of Movember forward, men are encouraged to make lifestyle changes. Scheduling regular health check-ups, engaging more frequently in physical activities, and educating themselves about health issues can collectively drive significant progress toward enhancing overall well-being. Such proactive measures are empowered by initiatives like those promoted by the Pima County Health Department.
Grasping the nuances of mental health was also at the forefront during the recent observance of International Men's Day on November 19, where experts fueled discussions about male mental health. At this event, organized by the Elizabethan Humanitarian Life Foundation, the theme this year was "Champions of Change: Addressing Male Mental Health Challenges at Different Stages of Life." Attendees considered how societal expectations have impacted today's boys and men.
Dr. Kemi Akintoyese, the Chief Clinical Psychologist at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, highlighted the detrimental nature of the rigid roles society imposes on male children. She noted, "From the moment they are born, society casts expectations on male children, forcing them to fit predefined roles which often leads to significant identity crises as they mature. This crisis frequently culminates in mental health issues like depression and anxiety, complicity bred through societal demands."
Mrs. Oyinade Samuel-Eluwole, the founder of the Elizabethan H&H Foundation, lamented how cultural norms discourage men from voicing their emotional struggles. "Men often feel boxed in; they think they must 'man up,' suppressing feelings which can be detrimental, leading to frustration, substance abuse, and even suicide," she explained. To address these challenges, she underscored the necessity of cooperation among families, government entities, and advocacy groups.
Highlighting the role of education, she emphasized the importance of integrating counseling services within schools to support young boys. Mental health issues can affect anyone regardless of wealth or status, emphasizing the collective societal approach needed to tackle these problems.
Another speaker, Prophet Ade Ologbonyo, proposed establishing a Ministry of Men's Affairs to directly address specific challenges men face. Sulaiman Adedokun, Group Managing Director of Meristem Securities, discussed the corporate sector's responsibilities, urging companies to be actively involved in mental health discussions. Meanwhile, Titilope Ogunluyi, from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, highlighted the importance of familial support, advocating for mentorship opportunities within male circles to ease stressors.
Noah Olukayode, another expert, brought attention to the need for balance—pointing out the importance of not letting women's empowerment overshadow men's mental health concerns. "Many men live as ‘walking wounded,’ silently dealing with pressures from society and personal struggles," he cautioned, reiterative of the urgent need for open conversations about men's mental health.
These discussions are not merely academic; they carry weighty real-life repercussions. Awareness campaigns like Movember play a key role, compelling society to rethink outdated notions about masculinity. By highlighting the significance of men's health issues, especially mental wellness, it sparks conversations and facilitates change.
Through improved communication, education, and structural support, there is potential for men to navigate their mental health journeys with greater ease. Movember, combined with observances like the International Men's Day, indicates the beginning of significant change and the necessity of continuous dialogue around men's health.
While awareness is growing, the required cultural shifts will take time. But with commitment—both on individual and institutional levels—mental health improvement for men can become more than acceptance; it can transform to be proactive care for all, nurturing the silent struggles faced daily by men.
