The Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center (JPAFHC) recently held a Men’s Health Summit in Arverne to mark National Men’s Mental Health Month. This gathering shone a light on important health issues men face and promoted preventive care practices.
June is National Men’s Mental Health Month, dedicated to raising awareness about men’s mental health struggles and encouraging open discussions. Events like the summit aim to break the stigma surrounding mental health.
This year’s theme was “Closing The Empathy Gap.” Attendees enjoyed free health screenings, insurance help, fitness activities, and insightful wellness conversations. Health professionals conducted screenings for prostate cancer, blood pressure, and even HIV, emphasizing health issues that can significantly affect men’s lives.
Participants engaging in screenings entered a raffle for a free iPad, encouraging them to take an interest in their health.
Dr. Ari Benjamin, JPAFHC’s Chief Medical Officer, stressed the importance of preventive care. "Men often wait until something feels wrong to see a doctor, which can be too late,” he said. “We wanted to create a safe space to talk about physical and mental health. Early action can save lives.”
One notable speaker at the summit was Damien Henry, a JPAFHC patient diagnosed with prostate cancer at just 37. His routine physical led to early detection when his doctor decided to conduct a prostate exam, catching the cancer early and allowing for timely treatment.
Renee Hastick-Motes, the CEO of JPAFHC, pointed out the summit’s goal: to highlight both men’s mental and physical health. "Men’s health is often overlooked, yet it has life-altering consequences," she noted. "Supporting men’s health strengthens families and communities."
In the broader context, statistics show a growing concern for men’s health. According to a recent survey by the CDC, men are 24% less likely than women to visit a doctor for regular check-ups. This reinforces the importance of events like the Men’s Health Summit, which aim to bridge this gap.
As the conversation around men’s health continues to evolve, initiatives that promote understanding and empathy are crucial. Creating safe spaces for dialogue about mental and physical health not only empowers men but supports families and communities as well.
For more information on men’s health initiatives, visit CDC Men’s Health.
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