On June 24, 2024, the City Health Office of Malaybalay held a Men’s Health Month celebration at the covered court of Barangay 3 in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.
This event marked National Men’s Health Month, an initiative to remind men of the health issues they face and encourage them to take charge of their health. Men are significantly less likely than women to see a doctor or report symptoms to a healthcare provider.
The celebration featured a forum emphasizing the importance of physical health, mental health, and social connection.
Key speakers included Dr. Melirose S. Deticio, Dr. Ann Michelle C. Go, Dr. Kim T. Luardo, Shelleme O. Macatol, RN, Athena Roselle B. Ortillo, RN, Frances Charmaine A. Lazalita, RN, Gazel Dane A. Dela Cruz, RN, Fruitelyn Vicente and other POPDEV staff, Pastor Edel Singson, Sir Roger Gamba, and CHO staff, with participation from the Mayor’s representative, Ms. Jade Awa, Hon. Cecille C. Pagaling, Chairman on Health, and representatives from various city government offices.
The forum tackled topics such as healthy lifestyle choices, smoking cessation, prostate cancer awareness, reproductive health, mental health, STI/HIV and AIDS awareness, family planning, and the KATROPA program.
According to the American Heart Association, men have a greater risk of heart attack than women and tend to experience heart attacks earlier in life. Overall cancer rates are also higher for men, with lung, prostate, and colon cancers being the most prevalent. While anxiety and depression affect all genders, research indicates that men are less likely to seek mental health support.
The event aimed to raise awareness of these issues and encourage men to take proactive steps in managing their health.
Report: Lianne Jones T. Cajegas, CHO NADA