Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH) is proud to recognize Men’s Health Month (June 2026) and International Men’s Health Week (June 15–21, 2026) in support of improving the health and well-being of men and boys in all phases of life.

This year’s national theme, “Partners in Care: Advancing Men’s Health Through Connection, Education, and Advocacy—For Better Lifespans Across the Lifespan,” emphasizes that men’s health does not happen in isolation. Health outcomes are shaped by relationships, with partners, families, caregivers, workplaces, and communities, and strengthening these care partnerships is essential to improving long-term outcomes.

“If you’re a man over 40, one of the most important things you can do is establish a relationship with a primary care provider,” said Dr. Andy Horine, CCMH Chief Medical Information Officer. “Regular blood pressure checks, diabetes screening, cholesterol testing, cancer screening, vaccinations, and mental health discussions can make a tremendous difference.”

Men continue to experience higher rates of preventable illness and premature death. In the U.S., men die on average 6 years earlier than women, often from conditions that are preventable or manageable with early detection and consistent care. This gap underscores the importance of education, awareness, and proactive engagement.

Men’s health awareness includes, but is not limited to:

• Heart disease and stroke, leading causes of death among men
• Prostate and testicular cancers, where early detection improves outcomes
• Colorectal and lung cancers, which disproportionately impact men
• Diabetes and metabolic conditions, often linked to preventable risk factors
• Mental health challenges, depression / suicide, where men face higher mortality rates
• Substance use disorders, contributing to preventable deaths
• Workplace-related injuries and safety concerns
• Healthy aging and chronic disease management across the lifespan

“I often tell my patients that routine checkups are no different than routine maintenance on equipment,” Dr. Horine said. “We change the oil, inspect preventable issues, and address small problems before they become major breakdowns. Our bodies deserve the same attention.”

Improving men’s health outcomes requires a comprehensive approach that promotes preventive screenings, early intervention, mental and emotional well-being, and open health conversations. It also requires recognizing men not only as patients, but as caregivers, partners, fathers, mentors, and community leaders.

“Many men spend their lives putting work, family and community first,” Dr. Horine said. “Unfortunately, many also put their own health last. Preventive care helps us identify problems before they become emergencies and helps people stay healthy, independent, and active for years to come.”

“Supporting men’s health strengthens families and communities,” said Jennifer Thompson, VP at Men’s Health Network. “By recognizing care as a partnership, we can encourage earlier conversations, proactive health decisions, and better outcomes for everyone.”

By advancing connection, education, and shared advocacy, we can help close the Lifespan Gender Gap and support healthier, longer lives for men and boys.

“I’ve met very few farmers who would ignore a warning light on equipment they need to complete planting or harvest season,” Dr. Horine said. “My message to men is simple: don’t ignore the warning lights your body gives you. A checkup today may help keep you healthy enough to enjoy many more seasons with your family, your farm, and your community.”

For more information about the services at Carroll County Memorial Hospital, visit our website http://www.carrollcountyhospital.org or call 660-542-1695.

About CCMH

Carroll County Memorial Hospital (CCMH), the area’s premier healthcare resource, is a 25-bed Critical Access facility serving Carrollton and the surrounding communities. It offers 24-hour emergency care, specialized services such as advanced diagnostics, post-acute skilled care (swing bed) and comprehensive family care. CCMH is dedicated to the Health and Well Being of All We Serve. For more information, visit carrollcountyhospital.org.