Where's the patriarchy in healthcare

Preface : [ This newsletter was developed prior to the overturning of Roe v Wade by the supreme court and was scheduled for an earlier release but was postponed to allow processing of the verdict. While it may seem a touch off base, given the recent time, I am publishing this because the topic is still important and doesn't negate the issues surrounding women's health. Onward we fight! ]

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month

The healthcare sex gap is not what you think.

It’s a lot bigger than what you might imagine…

For the last century, the focus on healthcare has been predominantly about women’s health -- not addressing men’s health needs. And the little engagement that has considered men’s health is mostly centered on sexual dysfunction and baldness. This laser focus has translated into decades long of poor health outcomes and policy for men. The data shows:

• Men accounted for 75% of early COVID 19 deaths in China and they continue to die at higher rates globally

• Men are 10x more likely to get inguinal hernias than women and 5x more likely to have aortic aneurysms

• 72% and 65% of deaths from tobacco and alcohol, respectively, are attributed to men

• Asian American men get stomach cancer 2x as often as non-Hispanic White American men

And so on and so on…

Still, there is hope to alter the health inequities men are facing. Recent health policies aim to improve the under-utilization of primary care services, health literacy, risk-taking and even toxic masculinity in order to curb poor outcomes. Digital health companies are helping men screen early and often for cancer, seek mental health help, and reduce barriers to see a doctor.

All in all, the horizon looks promising if the profile of men’s health continues to be researched and elevated in the health equity conversation.

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IN THE NEWS

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Mars vs. Venus: The gender gap in health

Harvard Health Publishing

Cancer is Stalking Asian American Men. Science Isn’t Doing Enough

Men's Health Network

The Ultimate Guide to Preventative Care for Men

Healthline

While you can’t control your genetics, taking charge of your overal health can help lower your risk of developing many conditions down the line.

Some men have the misconception that if they seem healthy, they don’t need to visit a doctor. But getting regular checkups and health screenings can catch many diseases in the early stages or before they develop.

This guide will give you the rundown on the types of preventative care you can receive to keep you healthy at each stage of your life.

Why Covid19 policy should explicitly consider men’s health

Medical News Today

Black Masculinity and Mental Health: What Black Men Should Consider About Their Emotional And Mental Wellness

Forbes

Vault Health launches consumer men's health service with $30M Series A, but suspends some in person visits due to COVID 19

Mobihealthnews