During International Men’s Health Week, June 13-19, it is important to raise awareness of preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment.

Men are at higher risk for heart disease, lung cancer, and HIV. They also have unique health problems like prostate cancer.

Cambria County cancer statistics from the Pennsylvania Department of Health show that men are at higher risk for most cancers:

  • All cancers – male 501.7 per 100,000 compared to women 450.5 per 100,000
  • Colon and rectum – male 51.6 per 100,000 compared to women 37.9 per 100,000
  • Lung and bronchus – male 70.6 per 100,000 compared to women 47.9 per 100,000
  • Urinary bladder – male 41 per 100,000 compared to women 10.4 per 100,000
  • Prostate 104.3 per 100,000

Somerset County cancer statistics show:

  • All cancers – male 484 per 100,000 compared to women 423.5 per 100,000
  • Colon and rectum – male 43.1 per 100,000 compared to women 29.5 per 100,000
  • Lung and bronchus – male 62.6 per 100,000 compared to women 44.4 per 100,000
  • Urinary bladder – male 38.7 per 100,000 compared to women 10 per 100,000
  • Prostate 106.6 per 100,000

Men should be sure to adopt healthy lifestyles that include:

  • Routine doctor visits
  • Eating a balanced diet
  • Limiting alcohol
  • Quitting tobacco use
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
  • Staying active

According to Healthy People 2030, men die on average 5 years sooner than women do.

In an effort to raise awareness about men living longer and healthier lives, Men’s Health Network created Wear BLUE Day.

This year, Wear BLUE Day takes place June 17. Remember to wear blue to show support for the men and boys in your life.

Sources:
https://health.gov/healthypeople/objectives-and-data/browse-objectives/men
https://www.health.pa.gov/topics/HealthStatistics/VitalStatistics/CountyHealthProfiles/Documents/current/index.aspx#choose-a-county-profile
https://www.menshealthnetwork.org/wearblue/