June 13-19, 2022 and June 2022: Men's Health Week and Month

WHEREAS, despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average of five years less than women, with Native American and African American men having the lowest life expectancy; and,

WHEREAS, every person should be able to reach their full health potential, without barriers linked to race or ethnicity, gender identity, education, income, location, or other social factors; and,

WHEREAS, men are less likely to seek help for depression, stress, and substance abuse than women, and Middle-aged people, especially men have the highest rate of suicide in the U.S. compared to other groups, and men ages 85 and older have the highest rate of any group in the country, according to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) https://www.samhsa.gov/suicide/at-risk; and,

WHEREAS, educating the public and health care providers about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and early detection of male health problems can result in reducing rates of mortality from disease; and,

WHEREAS, men who are informed about the value that preventative health practices can play in prolonging their lifespan and ensure their ability to care for their self and family  will be more likely to participate in health screenings; and,

WHEREAS, fathers who maintain a healthy lifestyle are role models for their children and have happier, healthier children; and,

WHEREAS, Men’s Health Network worked with Congress to develop a national men’s health awareness period in efforts to help educate men, boys, and their families about the importance of positive health attitudes and preventative health practices; and,

WHEREAS, the Men’s Health Month website has been established at www.MensHealthMonth.org  which features resources, proclamations, and information about awareness events and activities, including Wear Blue Day (www.WearBlueDay.com); and,

WHEREAS, Michigan Men’s Health Month focuses on a broad range of men’s health issues, including heart disease, mental health, diabetes, and prostate, testicular, and colon cancers; and,

WHEREAS, Michiganders are encouraged to increase awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and medical checkups;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim June 13-19, 2022, as Men’s Health Week and June 2022 as Men’s Health Month in Michigan.