June is Men’s Health Month. This month is a reminder for men to take care of their health. Many men take care of their families, work long hours, and handle a lot, but don’t always check in on their own health. Men’s Health Month is the perfect time to change that, even if it’s just by taking one small step.

Why Men’s Health Matters

Men often wait too long to go to the doctor. They may skip checkups or ignore signs that something isn’t right. But many health problems, like heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes, can be caught early. When you find these issues early, they are easier to treat.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important. If you’ve been feeling stressed, angry, tired all the time, or just not like yourself, it’s okay to talk to someone. Getting support doesn’t make you weak. It means you care about your life and your future.

What Should You Be Checking?

These are some of the most common checkups your doctor may talk to you about:

• Blood pressure: High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
• Cholesterol: Too much (high) cholesterol can block blood flow.
• Blood sugar (for diabetes): High sugar (glucose) levels can harm your heart, eyes, kidneys, and cause nerve damage.
• Colon cancer screening: Usually starts around age 45 but talk to your doctor about when you should get checked.
• Prostate cancer screening: Ask your doctor when you should get checked.
• Mental health: If you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, talk to your doctor or a counselor.

Start with One Step

You don’t need to fix everything at once. Start with one simple thing. You can make a doctor’s appointment, go for a short walk, skip fried food for one meal, or reach out to a friend to talk. These small steps add up over time. The goal is to start taking care of your health. Taking small steps is the key.

Need Help? You’re Not Alone

If you need help finding a doctor, you can call us:

• CHIP/STAR Members: 713.295.2294 or 1.888.760.2600 (TTY 7-1-1)
• STAR+PLUS Members: 713.295.2300 or 1.888.435.2850 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Marketplace Members: 713.295.6704 or 1.855.315.5386 (TTY 7-1-1)
• Medicare (D-SNP) Members: 713.295.5007 or 1.833.276.8306 (TTY 7-1-1) 

You don’t have to do everything. Just do something. One step is a good place to start.