(WPDE) — For Men’s Mental Health Week (June 15-21), the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is encouraging men to get active, practice healthy habits, and schedule doctors’ appointments.
According to data compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 14.2% of men in the U.S. are in fair or poor health, and only 28.3% of men meet the recommended amount of physical activity for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. Additionally, 39.2% of men aged 20 and up are considered obese.
“Men’s Health Week is a perfect reminder to commit to habits that support a stronger, healthier life,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, acting DPH director. “Small steps, like getting regular checkups, staying active, and choosing nutritious foods, can make a big difference over time. This week offers an ideal moment to start fresh and build lasting routines that help you feel your best.”
117 male deaths were recorded per 100,000 male population due to heart disease from 2019 to 2023. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercising regularly can help reduce the risks of heart disease.
Every year in South Carolina, more than 15,000 men are diagnosed with cancer, and around 5,800 men die from cancer-related causes.
It is recommended that men aged no later than 45 years old get screenings for colorectal cancer and prostate cancer by 55.
“Regular screenings and healthy choices such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake and keeping a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing cancer and dying from cancer,”
Said Hallie Heffner, DPH’s Cancer Prevention Coordinator.
The DPH is asking all men to follow these healthy practices:
Get 150 minutes of physical activity a weekQuit tobacco useDrink alcohol in moderationalways attend, or schedule, annual check-upslearn of your family’s health history