This article highlights Dr. Dominick Shattuck’s discussion on *The Meaning of Men Podcast*, exploring how men’s health outcomes are influenced not only by personal choices but also by healthcare systems, policies, and social structures. The piece examines why many men disengage from preventive care, the importance of meeting men where they are, and strategies that can improve long-term healthcare engagement. Building on Dr. Shattuck’s insights, Men’s Health Network discusses why this conversation is especially timely amid growing awareness of the Lifespan Gender Gap and ongoing efforts to improve men’s health policy and preventive care. The article emphasizes that men’s health is not just an individual issue, but one that affects families, workplaces, communities, and society as a whole.Continue reading
Tag: men’s health research
Why America Can No Longer Ignore Men’s Health: Responding to the Growing Call for a Federal Men’s Health Strategy
This response article examines the growing national conversation around men’s health policy through the lens of Dr. Dominick Shattuck’s Substack post, “Why the U.S. Needs a Federal Strategy on Men’s Health.” The blog explores the nearly six-year Lifespan Gender Gap between men and women, highlighting how preventable conditions such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, injury, and suicide continue contributing to premature mortality among men. It discusses the structural, cultural, and healthcare-system barriers that often prevent men from engaging in preventive care early, including stigma, medical mistrust, workplace pressures, and norms surrounding self-reliance. The article also analyzes the proposed H.R. 7602 — State of Men’s Health Act, which would establish a national study on men’s health disparities and create an Office of Men’s Health within HHS to coordinate prevention and public awareness efforts. Throughout the piece, the response emphasizes that improving men’s health outcomes is not a zero-sum issue, but rather a broader public health, workforce, family, and community issue that benefits society as a whole through stronger preventive care, earlier intervention, and improved healthcare engagement.Continue reading
Men’s Health Network Joins National Coalitions: Supporting Bladder Cancer Research Funding and Strengthening the Nursing Workforce
MHN announced its support for two national policy initiatives aimed at improving men’s health outcomes. The organization joined national coalitions advocating for the creation of a Bladder Cancer Research Program within the Department of Defense CDMRP and for federal policy updates recognizing post-baccalaureate nursing degrees as professional degrees to strengthen the healthcare workforce. The announcement highlights the importance of cancer prevention, research investment, and expanding access to care, particularly for men who face higher mortality rates and barriers to preventive services.Continue reading
A Turning Point for Men’s Health: From Introduction to Nationwide Momentum for H.R. 7602
A historic shift is underway in men’s health policy. This blog explores the introduction of the State of Men’s Health Act (H.R. 7602), the growing bipartisan and national medical support behind it, and the landmark recognition of Men’s Health Nursing as a specialty—marking a pivotal moment in strengthening federal coordination, clinical infrastructure, and prevention efforts for men and boys across the United States.Continue reading
Masculinity, Health, and the Power of Understanding: Why Dr. Smiler’s Books Make an Impact on the Conversation
This blog highlights how Andrew Smiler brings clarity and balance to today’s conversations about masculinity through Is Masculinity Toxic?: A Primer for the 21st Century and The Masculine Self (7th Edition). Together, these books offer accessible language and evidence-informed insight into how masculine norms shape health, behavior, and relationships, moving the conversation beyond sound bites toward understanding that supports healthier outcomes for men and boys.Continue reading
Illinois Leads the Nation in Men’s Health: A Closer Look at the 2025 Men’s Health Assessment
Illinois is leading the nation in men’s health by becoming one of the only states with a dedicated Men’s Health Section within its Department of Public Health. The newly released Men’s Health Assessment 2025, authored by Andrew Lerch, DPT, PT, provides a comprehensive, data-driven look at the health challenges facing men across the state. This landmark report highlights disparities, identifies priority areas for action, and offers a blueprint for how states can integrate men’s health into public health strategy, policy, and practice.Continue reading
Understanding Men’s Perspectives on Menopause: An Invitation to Join in on New Research
Menopause is a significant life stage for women, but it also impacts the men in their lives. Understanding how men experience this transition is crucial for developing support systems that work for both partners. Your participation could be the key to creating resources that will benefit couples facing this transition in the future. By sharing your experiences, you will help close the empathy gap and foster a culture where men and women feel equally supported during menopause.Continue reading
