June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health issues and encouraging men across the Commonwealth to take steps toward healthier lives. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is encouraging men to use available health programs and preventive services to better understand their health and reduce long-term health risks.
VDH also wants men to get regular checkups and take care of their health. Start today. Even small changes can help you feel better and stay healthy.
- Check your blood pressure and get regular health checkups.
- Talk to a friend, family member or doctor about your health goals. They can help you stay on track.
- Be active. Try to walk every day, even if it is just for 20 to 30 minutes. Walking can help your heart, lower stress and help you feel better.
- Get enough sleep and try limit your alcohol intake.
- Visit QuitNowVirginia.org, or call 1-800-Quit Now if you are a current smoker or nicotine user.
- If you’re having a hard time – get help by calling the 988 Lifeline. Talk with someone whether that’s a friend or professional. Staying mentally health can help protect your physical health.
Many of the Local Health Districts offer programs and services that support men’s health, including:
- Blood pressure monitoring and heart health awareness: Men are encouraged to regularly check their blood pressure and learn about heart disease prevention. An estimated 31% of Virginia adults are living with hypertension, or high blood pressure, a condition that continues to affect men at disproportionately high rates and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Nutrition and healthy lifestyle education: Promotes balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to help lower the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
- Vaccination services: Immunizations for adults, including tetanus, hepatitis B, influenza, COVID-19, HPV, and other routine vaccines that help protect long-term health.
- Sexual health services and STI prevention: HIV/STI testing, sexual health resources, and free condoms to help reduce the spread of sexually transmitted infections across Virginia communities.
For more information about men’s health and programs, contact your Local Health District at or visit the Virginia Department of Health website.