Men’s health: Five things to know

Men's health is a topic often overshadowed by stereotypes of toughness and fortitude, but it's a crucial aspect of overall well-being that deserves attention and awareness. From physical to mental well-being, here are five essential things to know about men's health:

1. Preventive Care is Key: Many men tend to neglect routine check-ups and preventive screenings, but early detection of health issues can be life-saving. Regular visits to health care providers for check-ups, blood pressure screenings, cholesterol tests, and other screenings are essential for maintaining optimal health. Proactive prevention can identify potential health concerns, allowing for earlier interventions and better health outcomes.
2. Mental Health Matters: Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet it's often overlooked. Men may be hesitant to seek help for conditions like stress, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse due to stigma or societal expectations of masculinity. However, it’s crucial to prioritize mental well-being and seek support when needed for overall health, resilience, and quality of life.
3. Healthy Lifestyle Habits Make a Difference: Adopting healthy lifestyle habits can significantly impact health and well-being. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress management are foundational pillars of good health. Avoiding tobacco use, limiting alcohol consumption, and practicing safe sex are also important. Small, sustainable changes in daily habits can lead to significant improvements in overall health and vitality.
4. Know Your Numbers: Understanding key health indicators, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference, is essential for monitoring health status and identifying potential risk factors for chronic diseases. Being aware of these numbers and working with health care providers to maintain them within healthy ranges can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health conditions.
5. Community Support is Vital: Building a strong support network of friends, family, and healthcare professionals is crucial for men's health. Having a supportive community can provide encouragement, accountability, and resources for navigating health challenges and making positive lifestyle changes. Whether it's joining a fitness group, participating in men's health forums, or seeking guidance from healthcare providers, community support plays a vital role in promoting men's health and well-being.

Need help getting started? Our Florida Blue Center teams can help do blood pressure checks, offer health coaching, and help you find care, like a low- or no-cost clinic or other resources that may be available nearby. They also host events online and in person that are open to the community. You can find the Florida Blue Center nearest you and a listing of upcoming events at FloridaBlue.com/Center or call 1-877-352-5830.

At every stage of life, men’s health can enhance overall quality of life. Prioritizing preventive care, addressing mental health concerns, embracing healthy lifestyle habits, fostering healthy relationships, balancing work and personal life, and keeping an eye on vital health indicators are all key. Also, seeking community support. By taking control of your health, you’ll be paving the way for a vibrant and fulfilling life. Remember, investing in your health today will pay dividends for many years to come.

Florida Blue is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

Fully Alive Men's Health Summit

In honor of this year's Men's Health Month (June), Florida Blue is excited to support Platinum Men's Health and Wellness and Raise Your Glass Promotions to collaborate and present the inaugural "Fully Alive Men’s Health Summit."

This groundbreaking series will shine a spotlight on men’s health and well-being, offering valuable insights, resources, and inspiration to men everywhere.

This community initiative is aimed at not only the men, but just as importantly, to the women who can support the men in their lives and help them live longer, healthier lives. We want to engage and educate all women (wives, mothers, sisters, aunties, daughters, nieces, granddaughters, and friends).

The Fully Alive Men’s Health Summit will explore a wide range of topics, including physical health, mental wellness, nutrition, fitness, and more. Through engaging presentations and panel testimonials, attendees will gain valuable knowledge and practical strategies for living their healthiest, most fulfilling lives.

Upcoming sessions include:

"State of Black Men's Health with Dr. Adewale"

Saturday, June 1, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

*Livestream event

"Firetalk TV"

Saturday, June 8, 12:00 p.m.

*Livestream event

"You Are What You Eat"

Saturday, June 15, 1:00 p.m.

*Livestream event

"Functional Mobility for Men"

Saturday, June 22, 12:00 p.m.

*Livestream event

"Men's Health Month Brunch," hosted by Monica May

Saturday, June 29, 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Location: Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center

710 S. Tampa Ave., Orlando, FL 32805

To learn more and register for the upcoming sessions, visit https://www.platinummenshealth.com/menshealthsummit.