Community Collaboration for Men’s Health & Vitality

On average, men are less likely to pay attention to their health than women. Men are significantly less likely than women to see a doctor or report symptoms to a health care provider. Only 60 percent of men go to the doctor for a yearly, routine check up, and 40 percent won’t go until something is seriously wrong. Men are at higher risk for many serious diseases, including heart disease, lung cancer, and HIV. Men also face unique health problems that don’t affect women, like prostate cancer.

With prostate cancer deaths being on the rise for men, specifically in the Black and African-American and those of African-descent community, it was an important initiative that the Southeast Florida Cancer Control Collaborative (SFCCC) wanted to focus on. More specifically, in the South Florida area, the incidence rates were very high. The goal for the SFCCC community implementation project was to work together with healthcare providers and community-based organizations to educate and inform men on the importance of screening for prostate cancer and how to practice healthy habits to reduce the risk of diagnosis.

We decided to partner with the South Florida Caribbean Conference (SFCC) based on their ongoing work in the community. The SFCC has hosted several events dedicated to health, which encompassed mental and physical wellness, holiday giveaways for families and hosting community resource fairs. Our invitation to their Walk & Dance Socaton in June 2023 was an introduction to their dedication to serving and advocating for their community. SFCC was excited to lead the efforts in this collaborative event and be a supportive partner to our overall goal.

We are excited to work together on this unique and fun opportunity to engage men in learning about their health. We will have health resources, community vendors, and hear from cancer survivors who will tell their story. Food will be served,and games will be played! We anticipate a great turnout and hope to continue to support more events for men in our community. Please use this link to sign up and invite others to attend – space is limited! Men and women of all ages are welcomed to attend.

Registration Link: Domino Tournament: Advocating for Men’s Health and Vitality! Tickets, Thu, Mar 28, 2024 at 6:00 PM | Eventbrite

For more information about the SFCCC, please visit our social media website: https://www.facebook.com/SoutheastFloridaCancerControlCollaborative/

The Southeast Florida Cancer Control Collaborative (SFCCC) is a voluntary organization made up of representatives from health care providers, community organizations, advocacy groups and others interested in networking and education related to cancer control. The SFCCC was established in 2001 with six other regional collaboratives in the State and administered by The Florida Department of Health. The southeast regions include Broward, Indian River, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Okeechobee, Palm Beach and St. Lucie counties. To join our Collaborative, please email: healthcouncil@healthcouncil.org

References:

Men’s Health Month: Five things to know (iu.edu)

Men – Healthy People 2030 | health.gov