The state of men’s health in the United States is alarming and getting worse. Men have shorter lifespans, elevated rates of disease, and higher suicide rates. This problem affects everyone by disrupting families, taking men out of the workforce, and costing us all dearly. Direct and indirect costs for the five leading causes of premature morbidity and death among men total $420.6 billion annually.

The health challenges men face often go unaddressed due to stigma, reluctance to seek care, lack of awareness, or inaccessibility. A 2019 Cleveland Clinic Men’s Health Survey found that 65% of men avoid going to the doctor as long as possible. Avoiding annual check-ups and screenings, or ignoring early symptoms, can lead to late diagnoses, more invasive treatments, or death. In fact, men are more likely than women to die from treatable conditions such as cancer, diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, and suicide. As a result, life expectancy for men is 5.3 years shorter than women’s. These disturbing trends call for targeted approaches that encourage men to prioritize their health and seek early and regular care. 

A dedicated Office of Men’s Health would establish a single, coordinated effort within the federal government to develop and implement national strategies that aim to improve men’s health. The Office of Men’s Health could coordinate research, raise public awareness, advance policies, and support innovative programs that advance men’s health. Urge your representatives to support this bipartisan legislation.