June 10, 2026
Media Contact: Dr. Zelalem Attlee, Zelalem.Attlee@vdh.virginia.gov
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Encourages Men to Prioritize Preventive Care and Healthy Living
June is Men’s Health Month
WARRENTON, Va. – June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health issues and encouraging men and boys across the Commonwealth to take steps toward healthier lives. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is encouraging men to use available health programs and preventive services to better understand their health and reduce long-term health risks.
“Men’s Health Month is an important reminder that taking care of your health is not a sign of weakness; it is a commitment to your family, your community, and your future,” said Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District Director J. Carr, M.D. “The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District encourages all men to take proactive steps toward preventive care, including routine check-ups, early screenings, healthy nutrition, physical activity, and attention to mental well-being. Prevention saves lives, and it is never too early, or too late, to make your health a priority.”
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District offers 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.
The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District 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 not to drink too much alcohol.
- Visit QuitNowVirginia.org, or call 1-800-Quit Now if you are a current smoker or nicotine user
For more information about men’s health and programs, contact the Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District at www.rrhd.org or visit the Virginia Department of Health website.
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