An IMANA Guide to Observing Men’s Health Month

The first of June officially marks the beginning of Men’s Health Month — a campaign that promotes awareness, early detection, and prevention of health issues in men. According to a survey conducted between 2017 and 2020, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) found that 41% of men aged 20 and older are obese. Similar statistics offer evidence that men are more likely to be suicidal, more likely to suffer from diabetes and heart disease, and much less likely to see a doctor.

This Men’s Health Month, the Islamic Medical Association of North America team is committing to driving change, and encouraging good habits in men of all ages. Read on for our guide on how to observe this month because there’s honestly no better time to focus on your health than today. 

When Is Men’s Health Month and Why Did it Start?

Men’s Health Month begins on June 1st and runs throughout the entire month. It was officially established by the US Congress in 1994. The month of June was selected to coincide with Father’s day. Since then, the annual event has been a period for men to reflect on their own fitness levels and avoid preventable health issues.

Why is it important? For one, men are statistically less likely than women to seek medical advice. This delay often leads to late diagnoses of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Mental health is another concern, considering depression, anxiety, and stress disorders often go undiagnosed.

Common Men’s Health Issues to Watch Out For

While health outcomes are often unpredictable, affecting individuals in their own unique way — some conditions are more associated with men than others. Consider some of the most common health issues men should look out for. 

• Obesity: Poor diets and inactivity are a dangerous cocktail, and have been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and various other complications. In 2025, 38 million Americans are expected to be diagnosed with diabetes. 
• Prostate and Testicular Cancer: These are among the most common cancers affecting men. The American Cancer Society estimates there will be over 300,000 new cases of prostate cancer in 2025 alone.
• Lifestyle Diseases: Men who smoke, drink alcohol, have unhealthy diets, or sedentary lifestyles are a lot more likely to suffer from lifestyle diseases like hypertension, strokes, or diabetes. They may also produce less testosterone.
• Mental Health Disorders: Depression and anxiety often go unspoken, as men are encouraged to seek support and talk about how they’re feeling. 

For boys younger than 18, meanwhile, the biggest threats include anxiety and asthma. But, we’re all aware, anxiety can affect men of all ages. So, if you’re looking for advice on how to deal with stress better, read our guide here.

Practical Ways to Participate in Men’s Health Month

At IMANA, we understand that not everyone has the time or energy to completely overhaul their lives to observe Men’s Health Month. But that’s exactly the point of this guide. Most issues can be fixed through staggered, incremental, and consistent actions. For instance, anyone can make these five tips a part of daily practice.

Schedule Health Screenings

Annual checkups and screenings can be life-saving. For example, men over 40 are particularly advised to get checked for signs of prostate cancer every year, as the symptoms are known to stay hidden until it’s too late. Similarly, a screening can help you detect and prevent a host of other conditions.

Eat Healthier Meals

Forget about the diet fads, and focus on balancing your meals. Men who follow a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables, and healthy fats are a lot more likely to have better outcomes. This June, make a pledge to limit processed foods and sugars — it can have a transformative effect on your weight and blood pressure.

Move Your Body

Not everyone has the energy to hit the gym every day. But that’s not the only way to stay fit. Activities like walking, cycling, or even doing a few extra chores can elevate your cardiovascular health and mental well-being significantly. As per the CDC, you should target at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week.

Connect With Others

Don’t underestimate the power of a friend. Meaningful conversations improve mental and physical health and reduce feelings of isolation. If you are — or know someone who is — suffering from depression or anxiety, check out IMANA’s list of crucial resources.

Establish Healthy Habits

June is the perfect month to start good habits that last. This doesn’t mean you have to magically rid yourself of all vices by July. But set realistic goals — quit habits like smoking, focus on getting at least seven hours of sleep a night, and prioritize your overall wellness. 

Resources to Help You Get Started

The internet may be one of the biggest reasons young men chose to stay indoors, but there’s no reason why it can’t be an ally on your health journey. This June, use the internet to find more: 

• Healthy Recipes: Several blogs, websites, and professionals can show you how to prepare nutritious meals at home in easy-to-follow steps. Here are some examples from the American Heart Association.
• Exercise Plans: Access free workout programs designed for different fitness levels on YouTube or other social media. Fitness Blender, for example, has nearly 2,000 workouts posted to its YouTube channel. 
• Mental Health Podcasts: Sometimes all you need is a little advice from the experts. Listening to a podcast could be a soothing solution. The Mindful Minute or the Mental Illness Happy Hour are two examples that come to mind. 

Worried that this may all get too overwhelming? Start small with our guide on keeping your house clean instead. 

Make Men’s Health a Priority All Year

Men’s Health Month may only last 30 days, but at IMANA, we believe its message should stay with you all through the year. Use this June as a launching pad to start small, manageable habits that improve your quality of life.

Whether it’s booking a screening, taking a walk after dinner, or opening up about stress with someone you trust, your actions today can make a lasting difference.

For more information about men’s health month, or to support IMANA’s medical relief efforts, visit our website today.