Last month, the Our Healthy Kentucky Home initiative focused on women’s health, promoting beneficial services for women statewide. This month the focus has been on men’s health, and the different resources available for men’s personalized health needs.
Governor Andy Beshear spoke about how some issues in men’s health go underreported, and about the importance of monitoring and getting regular testing done.
“Sadly, the life expectancy for US men is nearly six years less than women. A lot of times this is because men are at a higher risk for medical problems, like heart disease, lung cancer, and diabetes. Men also face some unique health problems that don’t affect women, like prostate cancer,” said Beshear.
Beshear’s own father was diagnosed with prostate cancer more than 30 years ago, something he said shaped both of their lives even though he was successfully treated for the disease.
According to the CDC, 14% of men 18 or older are in fair or poor health, but only 28.3% of men meet the physical activity guidelines for muscle strengthening activity. Officials said to have a healthy population, healthy steps must be taken.
Steven Stack, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health, said 50% of men in the US who are 18 and older have hypertension, or high blood pressure.
“Compared to women, men are more likely to make unhealthy choices, including what we put on our plates. Good nutrition is critical for good health. Eating healthy means following a healthy eating pattern that includes a variety of nutritious foods, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy and proteins. Healthy eating also means limiting foods with added sugar, salt, and saturated or trans fats,” said Stack.
According to the 2023 America's Health Rankings, the United Health Foundation reported that the Commonwealth of Kentucky ranked 41st for overall health. Officials said they are working to improve the state ranking by spreading awareness.
More information and resources can be found at ourhealthykyhome.ky.gov.