Men’s Health Week runs from 10th – 16th June 2019.
This year, Men’s Health Week is focusing on Health by Numbers. The Men’s Health Forum will be looking at key numbers and statistics that men need to know about themselves and others around them. From their own health to an overall mental health figure, these numbers are important for every man to be knowledgeable on. Their campaign this year is based around the following.
Key numbers for men:
- 37 – a waist size of 37 inches or above puts you at increased of heart disease, diabetes and cancer. Learn more.
- 150 – men should aim for 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week. Learn more.
- 5 – we should aim to eat 5 portions of fruit and veg a day. Learn more.
- 14 – maximum 14 units of alcohol a week. Learn more.
- 10 – cigarette smokers die 10 years younger on average than non-smokers. Learn more.
- 120/80 – normal blood pressure. Learn more.
- 75 – 75% of suicides (3 out of 4) are by men. Learn more.
Their main message is one that can ultimately hit home, but with the determination to change these numbers, it’s an important statement.
“One man in five dies before he is old enough to retire. Together, by knowing our numbers, we can change this statistic.“
So, what can we do to help decrease these numbers?
Firstly, the Men’s Health Forum recommends that you check up on your heart and your head. Ensure that all cholesterol and blood pressure are at good levels by going for a general health check with your GP. Reduce your salt and sugar intake to help these factors. Secondly, check in with your mental health. Make sure you talk to someone you trust about how you feel and do things that can help to boost your mentality like exercise, or trying something new.
Finally, they want you to look at your diet and whether it’s a contributing factors to any of these numbers that they’re worried about. Try to get in the recommended 5 portions of fruit or veg a day and 8 cups of water. Reduce your alcohol intake and think about stopping smoking if it’s a habit that you have.
Another way they want you to look at your diet and how you use your body is by doing more exercise. Take a walk instead of that 15 minute drive, get off the bus a few stops earlier to get some extra steps in. A little change can really go a long way.
Read more here to find out how you can take part in Men’s Health Week and see whether you can incorporate these numbers into your daily lives. It’s important that men love themselves too and you don’t need candles and face masks to do it. Simply looking after your heart and head is enough.
Feature image: samer daboul from Pexels
