A close family member’s battle with prostate cancer – the second leading cause of cancer death in American men – is a reminder of the fragility of life. Thankfully, his recovery is underway; however, many others will not be as fortunate, as more than 34,000 American men are projected to die from the disease in 2022. And notwithstanding advancements in medical technology, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that men have a life expectancy five years shorter than women, and higher morbidity rates in relation to the three leading causes of death (cancer, heart disease, and accidental injury).

With these statistics in mind, June has been designated as Men’s Health Month. As part of the observance, Wear Blue Day was celebrated on June 17, which is touted as “part of the year-round Wear BLUE® awareness campaign that was created by Men’s Health Network to raise awareness about the importance of male health and to encourage men to live longer and healthier lives.” To complement its Men’s Health Month and Wear Blue Day observances, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health (“OMH”) has also developed a list of “5 Plays for Men to Stay on Top of Their Game,” encouraging (1) heart disease prevention through healthier diets; (2) moderate exercise; (3) preventative maintenance through regular checkups; (4) quitting/avoiding smoking; and (5) mental health assistance.

Wright Beamer remains an active supporter of health awareness initiatives. If you are interested in ways to provide relief and assistance to cancer patients, the American Cancer Society is a helpful resource.