The Metro: Routine checkups boost men’s lifespan
Men’s Health Month aims to close the life expectancy gap with awareness, support, and services—especially for Black men in Detroit and beyond.
Men are less likely to seek routine care, contributing to a life expectancy gap. A Detroit nonprofit is working to change that. Photo credit: Ivan Samkov, Pexels
Studies show women live longer than men. According to the CDC, women are expected to live about five years longer. While there isn’t a single explanation for this gap, several contributing factors shed light on the disparity.
Biology and hormones may play a role, along with external factors like job-related risks. Men are also more likely to smoke, drink heavily, and skip annual checkups.
To raise awareness and promote healthier habits, June was established as Men’s Health Month. On The Metro today, we spoke with Harold Neighbors, professor emeritus at the University of Michigan School of Public Health.
As Professor Neighbors explained, men often face societal pressures that discourage them from seeking mental and physical health care. A national organization is working to change that.
Demetrius Scott is leading those efforts in Detroit as the local coordinator for the African-American Male Wellness Agency, a nonprofit focused on reducing health disparities among Black men through free programs and services.
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