Health experts report that men in the United States are expected to live approximately six years less than their female counterparts on average. However, the state of Oregon is defying this trend with a narrower gap of just five years. These findings shed light on a concerning issue that has been the focus of an annual campaign for the past two decades.
The leading causes of death for men in the United States are heart disease and cancer, which contribute significantly to their shorter lifespans. To address this issue, the “Movember” campaign was initiated in 2003 by two individuals sitting in a pub in Australia. What began as a facial hair-themed movement has now evolved into a global event. During the month of November, men are challenged to sport mustaches, whether real or fake, with the goal of raising awareness about three major health issues affecting them: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health/suicide.
Movember not only encourages men to participate in this fun and symbolic gesture but also urges them to have open discussions about their health. This includes talking to their healthcare providers and engaging in conversations with their peers about their well-being.
To promote better health among men, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Help your heart and move more: Maintain a healthy weight and keep good cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Incorporate more physical activity into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs, walking or biking instead of driving.
- Know your numbers and risk: If you are 50 or older, consult with your healthcare provider regarding prostate health and whether you should have a PSA (prostate-specific antigen) test. Black men and those with family histories of prostate cancer are at slightly higher risk.
- Know your testicles: Regularly check your testicles for any abnormalities and consult your healthcare provider if something doesn’t feel right.
- Stay connected and talk more: Maintain close connections with friends, check in with them regularly, and make time for meaningful conversations. If you or someone you care about is going through a tough time, don’t hesitate to reach out and talk.
- Get help: For those looking to quit tobacco, resources like texting “READY” to 34191, calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW, or visiting quitnow.net/Oregon can be invaluable. Additionally, individuals struggling with substance use can find support through Oregon’s 24/7 Alcohol & Drug Helpline at 800-923-4357, which offers compassionate assistance and referrals to local resources for peer support and treatment.
In Oregon, there is further support available through the Oregon Health & Science University’s monthly support group for men affected by prostate cancer. Those interested can call 503-494-9244 or email rainey@ohsu.edu for more details.
The Movember campaign continues to be a powerful catalyst for raising awareness about men’s health issues and promoting a proactive approach to living longer, healthier lives.
Source: OHA
