NEWS RELEASE
Jun 12, 2000

Department of Community Health and Office of Services to the Aging Promote Men's Health Week

 

Michigan Department of Community Health Director James K. Haveman, Jr. and Michigan Office of Services to the Aging Director Lynn Alexander today encouraged citizens to participate in National Men's Health Week, June 12-18, 2000. The purpose of Men's Health Week is to raise awareness in society, especially among men, of the importance of preventive health behavior and the early detection and treatment of health problems affecting men.

"There are many things men and their families can focus on during Men's Health Week like quitting smoking, incorporating exercise into their daily routines and eating low-fat foods to improve their quality of life," said Haveman. "The most important thing we can do to improve the health of the citizens of Michigan is to encourage them to take the initiative to lead healthy lives."

The week will focus on a broad range of health issues impacting men from heart disease to prostate, testicular and colon cancer. Men and their families will be armed with vital information to help them better understand these problems and steps men can take to help safeguard their health.

"The health and well-being of Michigan's men, particularly the elderly, is a major concern," said Alexander. "Our goal is to encourage and support preventive health measures during National Men's Health Week and throughout the year. I would also encourage women and girls to talk to the men in their lives about the importance of staying healthy."

Men are encouraged to see their physicians for regular physical examinations and follow-up treatment. Statistics suggest the rate for male mortality could be reduced significantly if men sought treatment before symptoms reached a critical stage.

For more information please contact the National Men's Health Foundation at
1-800-955-2002 or visit their web site at www.nmhw.org.