Every June, Men’s Health Month rolls around—and every year, too many men ignore it. They skip the checkups. Avoid the hard conversations. Dismiss the warning signs. The truth is, men are dying too young from things they could have prevented: heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, cancers, and suicide.
- Men live, on average, five years less than women.
- Men have higher death rates for most leading causes of death.
- One in two men will develop cancer in their lifetime.
- Prostate cancer alone kills nearly 30,000 men in the U.S. each year.
- Men make only half as many doctor visits for prevention as women.
These aren’t just numbers—they’re red flags.
This isn’t a guilt trip. This is a wake-up call—and an invitation. Men’s Health Month is not about pointing fingers. It’s about recognizing that your health matters. Not just to you, but to your family, your friends, and your community. Whether you’re a dad, son, brother, husband, coach, coworker, or friend—someone is counting on you to be here. And the best way to do that? Start taking your health seriously today.
Why It Matters in Arkansas
In Arkansas, men live some of the shortest lives in the nation. Combine that with higher uninsured rates among men and a lower likelihood to seek preventive care, and the result is predictable—and preventable. Our providers at Healthy Connections see it every day: men coming in too late, when a manageable issue has become life-threatening.
We’re not here to judge. We’re here to change outcomes. With clinics across Western and Central Arkansas, flexible scheduling, affordable options, and a sliding-fee scale for those without insurance, we make it easier to stop putting it off.
A Real Story, Too Common to Ignore
One of our patients—a 52-year-old father of four—hadn’t seen a doctor in over a decade. When he finally walked through our doors, it wasn’t because he was feeling unwell. It was because his wife insisted. What he thought was just “getting older” turned out to be serious heart disease. Today, he’s in treatment. He’s back at work. He’s coaching his son’s basketball team. That one appointment changed everything.
Ready to Show Up for Your Health?
Take action now with one of these first steps:
- ✅ Call 888-710-8220 to schedule a men’s health checkup
- ✅ No insurance? Ask about our sliding-fee scale
- ✅ Visit healthy-connections.org to find your closest clinic
- ✅ Bring someone with you—a friend, brother, or coworker. It’s easier together.
Why Men’s Health Falls Behind
Men are 24% less likely than women to visit the doctor each year. Combine that with the fact that men are more likely to be uninsured, and it’s no surprise that conditions like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes go unchecked for far too long.
At Healthy Connections, we’ve made it our mission to reverse that trend. From primary care and cancer screenings to behavioral health and immunodeficiency treatment, we provide the full range of services men need—without judgment, and without barriers.
Men’s Health Month Checklist: 7 Things Every Man Should Do This June
- Schedule a Wellness Visit
Even if you feel fine. Especially if you feel fine. A simple visit can catch silent problems early. - Know Your Numbers
Get your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and BMI checked. These are the basics—and they matter. - Get the Right Screenings for Your Age
- Age 20+: Blood pressure, cholesterol
- Age 40+: Diabetes screening, colorectal cancer screening
- Age 50+: Prostate exam (or earlier if high risk), colonoscopy
- Talk About Mental Health
You don’t have to be in crisis to ask for support. Depression, anxiety, and burnout are real—and treatable. - Update Your Vaccinations
Flu shot, Tdap, shingles (50+), and others based on age and health status. Ask your provider what you need. - Clean Up Your Habits
Cut back on smoking, drinking, and processed foods. Start with one change you can stick with this month. - Move More, Sleep Better
Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity a day and 7–8 hours of sleep a night. Your body will thank you.
Men’s Health Month FAQ: What Arkansas Men Are Asking
Why do men avoid going to the doctor?
Fear, cost, embarrassment, and the “if it ain’t broke” mindset. But by the time something feels broken, it may be too late. Prevention isn’t weakness—it’s strategy.
What screenings do men need after 40?
Start with:
- Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose checks
- Colorectal cancer screening (starting at age 45)
- Prostate cancer screening (based on risk)
- Mental health screening
- Skin checks for signs of cancer
Where can I get affordable men’s health care in Arkansas?
Healthy Connections accepts Medicaid, Medicare, ArKids 1st, most insurance plans, and offers a sliding-fee scale for patients without insurance who qualify.
How do I talk to my husband about going to the doctor?
Be direct, compassionate, and persistent. Offer to help make the appointment. Remind him that real strength means staying healthy—for the people who need him most.
This Isn’t Just for Men to Read
Wives. Girlfriends. Mothers. Sisters. Daughters. Friends. You can help change the outcome. Too many men ignore their health until it’s too late—but they listen when someone they love steps in. Share this blog. Bring it up. Make the appointment. Tell them the truth:
“I want you here. I want you healthy.”
Healthy Connections Is Here
For more than 25 years, Healthy Connections has been the trusted provider of comprehensive healthcare for men and families in Arkansas. With locations across Western and Central Arkansas, we make care convenient, compassionate, and accessible—because when you show up for your health, you’re showing up for everyone who counts on you.
This is your month. Your move. Make it count.
