THE Department of Health (DOH) Central Luzon, together with its Men’s Health Program (MHP) implementers and partners, led the regional celebration of Men’s Health Month this June.
DOH Regional Director Corazon Flores said majority of men’s health issues are preventable and manageable, however, reasons such as misconceptions, lack of awareness, and fear influence the behavior and decision-making among men in accessing and/or utilizing available health services.
She said through this year’s theme, “Responsableng Juan kaisa ng bayan para sa ligtas, matatag, at panatag na buhay!”, the agency wants to highlight the indispensable role that men play as a responsible and productive member of society.
“It underscores the premise that men are clients who have their own reproductive health concerns; partners who recognize that their own health impact their partners’ well-being; and change agents who are capable advocates for gender transformation,” the director said.
The theme, Flores added, also aims to promote Bida Solusyon Plus behaviors among men against the Covid-19 pandemic.
Meanwhile, she said the celebration of Men’s Health Month coincides with Father’s Day to celebrate fatherhood and paternal bonds.
“With the influence that fathers have in society, this celebration provides a considerable opportunity to educate, encourage, and inspire men to take control of their health and enhance their relationships with their children, partners, and parents,” she cited.
With this, Flores encouraged the public, especially men, to make healthier choices and continue to observe minimum public health standards to prevent any disease.
“We [DOH] encourage you to eat well-balanced foods, eliminate or limit alcohol and tobacco consumption, practice self-care, avoid stress, and seek medical advice if necessary. This way, you can prevent the development of various diseases and may positively impact the quality of your lives,” she said. (PR)