Everyday health took a back seat to other concerns last year, but now’s the time for it to be front and center. Men’s Health Month, recognized each June, is a good opportunity for dads, brothers, husbands, sons, grandfathers, and men in general to take stock of your health.

Guy Things

The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted many of our regular health habits. As the U.S. has adjusted with prevention guidelines and vaccination, it’s not only safe to go back to the doctor – it’s time, especially if you’ve avoided routine medical care. Men, in particular, are susceptible to the following:

• Heart disease. Cardiac disease accounts for one of every four male deaths in the U.S. High blood pressure, a risk factor for heart disease, is more prevalent in younger men than other genders.
• Certain cancers. Men age 50+ are at the highest risk of developing skin cancer due to more sun exposure and fewer visits to their doctors. And nearly 16 percent of men uses tobacco – yes, those cigars count – making them prone to developing cancers of the lung, tongue and throat.
• Alcohol-related disease. Of the 88,000 Americans who die in alcohol-related events each year, 62,000 are men. Because excessive alcohol use also is linked to unpredictable behavior, it factors into another risk – unintentional injuries. Men are more likely to be injured in auto and motorcycle accidents, in addition to home and social incidents.
• Mental and emotional health conditions. Many Americans have experienced unprecedented hardships connected to the pandemic, leading to an increase in mental health needs. Men are less likely than women to seek help, regardless of severity. Mental health services are covered in U-M’s Health Plans. MHealthy also offers numerous resources and programs for the U-M community. If it all seems too much, start small with U-M’s quick mental health screening.
• Prostate conditions. More than 32 million men have prostate conditions that affect their daily living, including cancer, enlarged prostate and prostatitis. Prostate screening is covered with no copay through U-M Health Plans as part of an annual exam.
• Diabetes. Men are more likely than women to develop diabetes at lower weights because they usually carry excess pounds in their torso. Men also are slower to be diagnosed with prediabetes, a precursor to type-2 diabetes. Since uncontrolled diabetes puts men at risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, erectile dysfunction, and circulatory problems, early detection and treatment is important. Take a 60-second quiz (with puppies!) to determine if you’re eligible for free Diabetes Prevention Programs through U-M Health Plans. 

Help from MHealthy

Not sure where to start? MHealthy’s annual health questionnaire takes a few minutes to complete and provides personalized recommendations tailored to your needs. MHealthy also offers a number of programs to improve your physical and mental health, whether it’s a virtual meditation or exercise class, tobacco cessation program or an ergonomic consultation to improve your comfort while working.

MHealthy also offers an alcohol management program to help assess your habits, whether your goal is to reduce consumption or stop drinking entirely.

More Resources

Attention to a healthy lifestyle begins by establishing a relationship with a family doctor. Check the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan or the Physicians Health Plan provider directories to find one in your insurance plan's network.

Establishing a baseline will help you and your doctor set goals for a healthier lifestyle. Here’s a complete list of screenings for all ages covered through U-M’s Health Plans.