Homicide and the Lifespan Gender Gap

Summary: Men’s Health Network highlights how homicide contributes to the Lifespan Gender Gap—the nearly six-year difference in life expectancy between men and women. Each preventable death of a young man shortens the national average and represents lost potential, relationships, and community strength. In his article, Dr. Andrew Smiler examines data showing that men account for 80% of homicide victims, with most deaths occurring among young men under 35. Many are killed by people they know, often in moments of conflict or status-related tension. Smiler suggests that prevention begins with education—teaching boys and men how to resolve conflict, manage emotions, and de-escalate situations without violence. Men’s Health Network calls for greater empathy and early intervention to help young men live longer, healthier lives, reminding readers that every life saved helps close the gap and strengthen families and communities nationwide.Continue reading

November: A Month to Focus on Men’s Health and Community

November is a pivotal month for raising awareness about men’s health and community well-being. From Alzheimer’s and diabetes to epilepsy, tobacco use, and sexual health, each observance offers an opportunity to take action and encourage preventive care. Men’s Health Network emphasizes that health doesn’t take a season off—simple habits, early conversations, and empathy-driven outreach can make lasting change. This month’s blog highlights national campaigns like the Great American Smokeout, National Diabetes Month, and Impotence Education Month, alongside Illinois’ groundbreaking creation of a Division of Men’s Health. It also spotlights the growing Men’s Health Ambassadorship Program—ordinary people doing extraordinary work to close the Lifespan Gender Gap and build healthier communities. Through awareness, advocacy, and everyday choices, November reminds us that improving men’s health is a shared mission that benefits families, workplaces, and society as a whole.Continue reading

COVID-19 Vaccination: Still Important, Now with More Options OR COVID-19 Vaccination: An Ongoing Necessity With New Options

While the situation is less dire than it was four years ago, COVID Variants continue to pose significant health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations. The virus may not reach epidemic proportions in the US, but localized outbreaks can still occur unexpectedly. At Men's Health Network, we believe it's crucial to provide you with the facts and perspectives to make an informed choice for yourself and your loved ones. As we navigate the ongoing presence of COVID-19 in our lives, many men are still grappling with the decision to continue or begin vaccination. Continue reading

Public Health in Action – A Silent Health Crisis

Of all the things in the fields of both public health and healthcare that pique my interest and attention most, it’s health disparities, specifically the numbers 5 and 7.  In a country as productive and innovative as ours, it’s a particularly vexing reality check whenever I’m faced with those two numbers, which I’ve listed below...Continue reading

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