Men's Health - A Year's End Perspective
Well...it is New Year's Eve 2015! There were certainly a lot of wonderful accomplishments in year 2015 in terms of men's health, ranging from programs, health fairs, advocacy efforts, conference presentations, and so many more items. The collective efforts of so many wonderful and passionate individuals are quite notable. For example, Mr. Steve Petty at Integris Health in Oklahoma City, OK has continued to spear head cutting-edge men's health programming at the community level. The Men's Health University concept continues to be a well-respected model and vital part of the community in Oklahoma - well done Steve and colleagues! Dr. Michael J. Rovito, CEO and Founder of the Men's Health Initiative, Inc. along with Mrs. Kathy Rovito have also engaged in several community outreach efforts and programs targeting men's health. Additionally, MHI, Inc. has continued on a torrid pace in terms of producing its own evidence-based research in men's health! MHI, Inc. also achieved 501(c)3 status in 2015 - a big step in its ability to continue to make strides in men's health in Orlando and abroad - kudo's to MHI, Inc. and Mike and Kathy! I also have had the pleasure of getting to know new colleagues in the area of men's health. Dr. Michael Craycraft who heads up the Testicular Cancer Society (TCS) has transformed how survivors connect and battle testicular cancer. His work is truly organic and inspirational to all in men's health, particularly in the area of testicular cancer and health. The staff at the Men's Health Network continue to do impressive legislative advocacy work and community outreach in the Washignton, D.C. area and abroad. The efforts of Ana Fadich and Brandon Leonard among others has been essential in making men's health a priority in the U.S. - again, well done!
That said, there is much work to be done even in light of these collective efforts. The "voice" of men's health needs to become LOUDER and more present at all levels of government and healthcare. The U.S. needs to look at other progressive national models such as Australia, Ireland, and other nations that have drafted and adopted a men's health policy agenda. We further advocate for an Office of Men's Health where funding and programming can become more present in healthcare research and programming. Ultimately it is on us to act and keep pushing forward for population health equity! So, here's to a productive and impressive 2015, now onward to 2016 where many of these efforts will begin to LIVE!
~JL