Goshen, N.Y. – Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus and Health Commissioner Dr. Irina Gelman are proud to recognize National Men’s Health Week (NMHW), which runs through Father’s Day on Sunday, June 16th.
“Men’s Health Week raises awareness about preventable health problems and provides education about early detection and treatment of diseases among men and boys,” Neuhaus said. “We encourage all men to make their health a priority and to discuss any issues or questions that they might have with their healthcare provider. The County’s Health Department and I will continue to do all we can to help keep all County residents healthy.”
According to studies, men are 30 percent less likely to take their physical health seriously and often go multiple years between doctor visits. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that on average men live five years shorter than women.
Gelman stated that early detection is always best when it comes to preventing diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Along with regular doctor appointments, Dr. Gelman recommends the following tips for men to stay healthy:
- Get a good night’s sleep
- Do not use tobacco products
- Eat healthy
- Manage stress
- Be physically active
- Get screenings and vaccinations
Gelman also advised that health issues men should discuss with their physicians might include risks related to mental health and substance use, prostate and colorectal cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
This week, NMHW is celebrating 25 years of health awareness and advocacy. It is celebrated each year during the week that ends on Father’s Day. The legislation creating NMHW was sponsored by Senator Bob Dole and Congressman Bill Richardson and was signed into law by President Bill Clinton on May 31st, 1994.
Since then, the week is recognized by communities throughout the country.
The Orange County Department of Health encourages men to become more engaged and interested in their own health. Additional information can be found at www.MensHealthNetwork.org and www.cdc.gov.
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