Theme 2025: “Shoulder-to-Shoulder: Connecting for Health” | Symbol: Blue
I. Overview:
International Men’s Health Week (IMHW) is observed annually during the week leading up to Father’s Day, which in 2025 falls between June 9-15. This week aims to raise awareness about the unique health challenges faced by men and boys, encouraging early detection and treatment of diseases, and promoting overall well-being.
II. Significance of the Theme 2025:
The theme emphasizes the importance of social connections and community support in promoting men’s health. It encourages men to engage in open conversations about their health and to support one another in seeking help and making healthy lifestyle choices.
III. What is International Men’s Health Week?
IMHW serves to:
- Highlight preventable health problems among men and boys.
- Encourage early detection and treatment of diseases.
- Promote healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical check-ups.
- Foster discussions about mental health and emotional well-being.
IV. Quick Facts about Men’s Health 💡
- Men have higher mortality rates than women for many leading causes of death.
- One man in five dies before the age of 65. We can change that TOGETHER.
- Men are less likely to seek help for mental health issues, leading to underdiagnosis and undertreatment.
- Men are less likely to engage in preventive health measures, such as regular screenings.
- Risky behaviors, including rash driving, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, are more prevalent among men.
- Men are more likely to work in hazardous occupations, increasing their risk for injuries and health issues.
V. A Brief History of International Men’s Health Week:
- 1994: The U.S. Congress officially establishes National Men’s Health Week to raise awareness about preventable health issues and encourage early detection and treatment among men and boys.
- 2001: The 1st World Congress on Men’s Health convenes in Vienna, Austria, initiating discussions on coordinating global men’s health awareness efforts
- 2002: During the 2nd World Congress on Men’s Health in Vienna, representatives from six men’s health organizations worldwide resolve to launch IMHW, expanding the initiative globally.
- 2005: The Vienna Declaration is adopted, outlining a plan of action to improve men’s health.
- 2015: The concept of “Blue Monday” is introduced in Michigan, USA, marking the kickoff of Men’s Health Week to promote men’s health engagement and advocacy.
- 2016: The UK’s Men’s Health Forum launches large-scale campaigns focusing on themes like mental health and diabetes prevention, furthering the reach of IMHW.
VI. How to Observe International Men’s Health Week?
- Health Screenings: Organize or participate in health screening events for blood pressure, cholesterol, and other vital indicators.
- Educational Workshops: Attend or host workshops on topics like nutrition, exercise, and mental health.
- Community Engagement: Encourage open discussions about men’s health in community centers, workplaces, and online platforms.
- Social Media Campaigns: Use hashtags like #MensHealthWeek2025 and #ShoulderToShoulder to spread awareness.
- Wear Blue Day: Participate in Wear Blue Day to show support for men’s health initiatives.
🔗 References:
- https://www.menshealthforum.org.uk/mhw
- https://menshealthmonth.org/imhw/imhw
- https://gamh.or/
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