09 Jun 2025
In June, we observe Men’s Health Month. It’s a good time to focus on key health issues men face and highlight resources to support men’s well-being.
Similar to women’s health, prevention is key in reducing the risk of chronic disease, and includes strategies like getting regular biometrics screenings. Unfortunately, studies have shown men use preventive care services less than women.
Many of us depend on our dads, grandfathers, uncles, sons, husbands and brothers. So let’s prioritize their health and give them a nudge (if needed) to get the preventive care that might save their life and prevent unnecessary healthcare costs for them, their families and employers.
With that said, let’s explore five areas where men can proactively improve their health.
1. Heart disease
For men, heart disease typically manifests 10 years earlier than women. Some factors that increase the risk for men include hormonal and biological differences, fat distribution and lifestyle practices.
Tip #1: Adapt your diet
Adapting diets can be as straightforward as adopting a more plant-based diet. Start by decreasing meat portions at dinner and increasing portions of vegetables and whole grains.
Make protein the accent of the meal. Once per week, try a vegetarian alternative, such as veggie chili or a veggie burger. If that doesn’t work, here are seven other ways to reduce the risk of heart disease.
2. Nutrition
Eating well doesn’t have to be as joyless as it may have been for you as a child. Now more than ever, you can often find nutritious food without sacrificing flavor, especially if you experiment with food from across the globe.
Prioritizing good nutrition helps lower blood pressure, rates of obesity, eating disorders, depression and substance use, as well as reduces the risk of prostate cancer and heart disease.
Tip #2: Types of food to consume…and limit
Try to eat more plant-based food sources, such as olives, avocados, nuts, seeds, leafy greens and other varied, colorful vegetables, as well as fatty fish and other foods containing healthy fats.
Limit red meat, processed foods and ultra-processed foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, as well as items with added sugar. And with summer around the corner, be sure to maintain healthy grilling practices.
3. Stress
Research shows men are more likely to externalize stress, a significant impact given that angry outbursts can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke for more than two hours after the event.
Men also tend to seek mental health care less frequently than women. Although social support is a well-researched, effective coping mechanism for stress management, men often have small social networks.
Tip #3: Set boundaries
Setting boundaries targeted at stressors enables you to draw an invisible line between, for example, your work and personal life. Since technology allows us to stay connected 24/7, you must be deliberate and set actionable goals.
To address work stress, set a time to finish your workday and aim to adhere to that goal 80% of the time. Avoid bringing work home, as it keeps you from being fully present.
Here are more ways to reduce stress and improve your mental and physical health outside of setting work boundaries.
4. Mental health
Mental health affects everyone. And while some mental health conditions are more prevalent in women, men are more likely to die by suicide.
A Stress in America survey revealed many Americans internalize stress rather than talk about it with others. If counseling is a part of your employer’s benefits, make sure you take advantage of them.
Tip#4: Learn the three pillars to good employee mental health
Getting counseling isn’t the only way to improve mental health. In fact, there are things you can control like eating well and exercising that can help you have a better state of mind.
To learn more, check out three pillars to good mental health.
5. Low testosterone
Production of testosterone, a hormone that men have in higher levels generally, tends to decline with age. Low testosterone (low T), known as male hypogonadism, may affect 1 in 4 men over the age of 30, but is thought to manifest symptoms in only 5% of men.
Reduced sex drive, depression, difficulties concentrating and reduced muscle mass are possible side effects of hypogonadism. Low T may also be a risk factor for heart disease and metabolic syndrome.
Tip#5: Exercise and avoid smoking
Regular exercise and refraining from smoking improves testosterone levels. Some research shows participating in moderately intense physical exercise may rival the benefits derived from receiving testosterone treatment.
Performing strength training exercises at an aerobic intensity, or 65% of maximum heart rate, is recommended. Check with your doctor before starting any exercise program and consider investing in a few sessions with a certified personal trainer for instruction on proper use of strength training equipment. Your health is worth it!
How Labcorp can help
Labcorp health coaching can assist your employees in setting up and following their individual wellness goals and help them create healthy, sustainable habits. This includes good nutrition tips and ways to prevent cardiovascular disease, as well as advice, encouragement and emotional support in making sustainable lifestyle changes leading to healthier lives.
Contact us today to get a program started for your employees.