Texarkana, Arkansas Celebrates Men’s Health in June With A Mayoral Proclamation

The Mayor of Texarkana, Arkansas has joined the Governor of Arkansas in issuing a proclamation celebrating men’s health and fatherhood in June, helping educate men, boys, and their families about disease prevention, timely screenings, healthy lifestyles, and positive family relationships. Cities across Arkansas have joined in issuing proclamations. 

According to the Press Release, Texarkana, Arkansas Mayor Ruth Penney Bell’s proclamation can be found here, along with those issued by Governor Hutchinson.

The importance of this effort was also highlighted by a statement from the White House.

Raising awareness of the need for men and boys to live healthy lifestyles is critical to their wellbeing. The life expectancy for men is five years less than women, and men also have higher rates of death from cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Moreover, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports women are 100% more likely to visit their doctor for annual exams and preventative services than men.

Reports on the status of male health in each state can be found at the State of Men's Health website.  Proclamations from every state be found at www.MensHealthMonth.com.

“We applaud officials in their states for helping raise awareness of the health issues facing men and their families by recognizing this year’s men’s health awareness period,” said Ana Fadich, MPH, CHES, Vice President, Men’s Health Network. “Communities around the globe continue to promote the health and well-being of men and boys throughout the month of June. We hope this year’s awareness period will help men and their families be more mindful of their health starting with a doctor’s appointment.”

Across the country, hundreds of health care professionals, private corporations, faith-based organizations, community groups, and other interested organizations help plan activities and events that focus on men’s health during June, and throughout the year. On June 15, MHN encourages participation in using the #ShowUsYourBlue hashtag on social media where participants raised awareness about men’s health issues by Wearing BLUE.

For ideas and free resources in both English and Spanish, visit www.MensHealthMonth.org

This year also marks the 24^th anniversary of the establishment of National Men’s Health Week, as part of the larger awareness period of Men’s Health Month. The legislation was sponsored by Senator Bob Dole and Congressman Bill Richardson and was signed into law by President Bill Clinton on May 31, 1994.