Southeast Tennessee Project Access

Men continue to experience higher rates of preventable illness and premature death. In the U.S., men die on average 6 years earlier than women, often from conditions that are preventable or manageable with early detection and consistent care. This gap underscores the importance of education, awareness, and
proactive engagement.

Men’s health awareness includes, but is not limited to:
- Heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death among men
- Prostate and testicular cancers, where early detection improves outcomes
- Colorectal and lung cancers, which disproportionately impact men
- Diabetes and metabolic conditions, often linked to preventable risk factors
- Mental health issues, depression/suicide, where men face higher mortality rates
- Substance use disorders, contributing to preventable deaths
- Workplace-related injuries and safety concerns
- Healthy aging and chronic disease management across the lifespan

Improving men’s health outcomes requires a comprehensive approach that promotes preventive screenings, early intervention, mental and emotional well-being, and open health conversations. It also requires recognizing men not only as patients, but as caregivers, partners, fathers, mentors, and community leaders.