In the second part of a
Male employees in their mid-30s and 40s are often reaching the most rewarding points in their career. They're also
Two of the top health risks for men ages 35-50 are heart disease and cancer. From daily ways to promote heart health to annual colon and prostate cancer screenings, men can take much of their healthcare into their own hands. Yet research shows that around 40% of men only visit a doctor when they have a serious medical condition, versus attending annual appointments that could
Through offerings and education, benefits leaders can make
"When we're talking about men above 35 years old, it all becomes about prevention and keeping them healthy," says John Gallucci Jr., president and CEO of JAG Physical Therapy and a men's health advocate. "It's very, very important that colon screening, cardiac screening and prostate screening are not just something that's highlighted during Men's Health month; people should be educated throughout the year."
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Improving men's chances at better health
According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in men. Gallucci urges benefit leaders to prioritize nutrition and fitness information, and give workers access to healthy practices on a regular basis, especially in the office. JAG PT has set up two fitness days a year for corporate employees and leader-led, 20-minute sessions twice a week where employees participate in movement activities together. Gallucci also set up a discounted lunch program with a local restaurant offering heart-healthy menu options such as chicken, vegetables, fish and fruit.
"When the CEO is grabbing everybody and saying, 'Come downstairs for 20 to 30 minutes' twice a week, or my senior leadership is grabbing them if I'm not here, it becomes a social, integrated component of their workday," he says. "That's the easiest way to get people to buy in, because everybody's doing it together. [During these movement sessions,] employees' heart rates are going up, which decreases the incidence of heart disease, helps the musculoskeletal system, circulation and peripheral artery disease."
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Gallucci notes the importance of ongoing education about this and other areas of concern, pointing out that even men with outwardly healthy lifestyles should be getting checked regularly. Family history of heart disease, for example, can render a healthy person far more susceptible to an incident at a young age. Just attending regular appointments with a GP and consulting with a cardiologist can help people better stay on top of their heart health.
"Many cardiological programs out there will come in and do free screenings, and they're the simplest thing — blood pressure, EKG, take a little bit of blood, listen to your chest, and you're good to go," Gallucci says. "Ultimately, it gives you a baseline, which we all need."
Similarly, knowing more about high-risk cancers and optimal screening ages can help men avoid a late-stage diagnosis. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends men and women at average risk begin colon cancer screenings at age 45, but earlier if at higher risk due to factors like family history or certain chronic conditions.
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Smart communication strategies
Gallucci points out that there are many opportunities to share education and benefit information with employees all year long, whether that be through seasonal campaigns, guest speakers, or webinars. As the weather warms up, for example, communication about safe exercise practices in heat and a suggestion to get checked out by a cardiologist would be helpful, he says.
When men are faced with real, relatable examples of health issues, they are more likely to be proactive about their own care, Gallucci says. He recommends experts as well as company leaders share facts and experiences that encourage their workforce to participate in overall healthy lifestyles. Coupled with access to benefits and a workplace that makes health part of its culture, men are more likely to take part in everything from daily care to yearly exams.
"You have to implement prevention programs," he says. "People will appreciate it, they'll take a hard look at themselves, and they'll go get the screening."
