Louis Bezich

Too many men over 50 believe that physical and mental decline are inevitable, along with the limits these changes can place on quality of life. Yet, scientific evidence shows otherwise. Cultural norms and personal experience still reinforce the perception that aging means decline. The stereotypical image of a paunchy, middle-aged man who struggles physically and can't remember where he put his keys remains etched in the American psyche.

For those of us who advocate for better men's health, June is more than a marker on the calendar. It is Men's Health Month, a national and international observance meant to encourage healthier choices and greater attention to prevention. Its creation, and its spread around the world, also reflects an enduring reality: Many men still resist preventive care and the daily habits that protect long-term health. That reluctance remains deeply embedded.

Despite spending nearly twice as much on health care as its international counterparts, the United States ranks last overall among high-income nations in health system performance, with the lowest life expectancy, the highest death rates from avoidable causes, and the highest rates of chronic disease and obesity. Obesity prevalence continues to rise, with projections indicating further increases through 2026 and beyond.