In 1994, Congress understood it was time for men to get serious about their health and approved legislation sponsored by Senator Bob Dole and Congressman Bill Richardson recognizing National Men's Health Week.
The House and Senate recognized the importance for men to have regular health checkups with their physician. The members believed prevention and early detection of disease would become vital in saving health care dollars. As we celebrate National Men's Heath Week across America this week, this is the perfect time to begin a plan to promote good health. Congress realized good health had a dramatic impact on wives, daughters, mothers, and sisters, truly a family issue. They simply called on the people of the United States to observe National Men's Health Week with programs and activities.
As we think about bringing awareness to this important week, it is crucial to know the proper steps men need to take to ensure good health. The Cleveland Clinic reports healthy guidelines for those over 50, but these tips will work for men and women at any age:
- Eat a healthy diet
- Stay at a healthy weight
- Get 7-8 hours sleep
- Be phyisically active
- Don't smoke
- If you drink, limit to 2 drinks per day
- Get routine exams and screenings
Women's Heath magazine knows first hand how important it is for men to be healthy and is raising awareness for the cause. Women's Health believes:
- Early screenings are vital to staying healthy. By implementing a screening program in your routine, you may save your life. If a disease is caught early enough, it is easier to manage.
- Just do it.
- Give the gift of knowledge this father's day. The Men's Health Network has many resources available to help you or the father figure in your life. http://menshealthnetwork.org/
Anyone can assist in the Men's Health movement and it is not gender specific.
WBKN is certainly playing a big role this year. They are encouraging everyone to wear blue on National BLUE Day, Friday, June 15th to raise awareness for men encouraging them to seek regular checkups, cancer education and screenings. To help get the word out in your community, WBKN offers these valuable tips:
- Set up a table at a restaurant, school, library, community center, store or gym to provide information on men's health and Men's Health Month.
- Encourage a city council member in your community to issue a resolution regarding Nationa Health Month. To bring additional awareness, alert the media and invite the community to the signing.
- Ask a health professional to speek about men's health at your senior center, workplace, church or civic club.
After President Clinton signed the legislation in 1994, Congressman Richardson thanked the Men's Heath Network for their tireless efforts in helping shape and pass the proposal. Since that time, they have continued to organize Men's Health Month and Men's Health Week activities to help carry the important message. Across America, hundreds of corporations, community organizations, health care facilities and government agencies have come together to celebrate Men's Health Month.
Take time today to help carry the banner in your community and become one of the thousands who have planned activities across the United States.