Men’s Health Month is a time dedicated to raising awareness about preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment for diseases that disproportionately affect men. Across the United States, this month-long observance shines a light on the importance of regular check-ups, mental health support, healthy lifestyle choices, and access to care — especially for those without insurance.

The National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (NAFC), believe healthcare is a right, not a privilege. The NAFO's network of over 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics and Charitable Pharmacies is committed to providing no- or low-cost healthcare services to medically underserved men — from general health screenings to specialty services like dermatology, dentistry, and mental health care.

Why Men’s Health Month Matters

Statistically, men are more likely than women to:

• Skip routine health checkups
• Engage in riskier behaviors
• Experience shorter life expectancies
• Suffer in silence from mental health conditions

Men are also disproportionately affected by serious conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, prostate cancer, and depression. Many of these illnesses can be managed — or even prevented — through early detection, lifestyle changes, and regular medical care.

Risks of Vaccine-Preventable Diseases

Measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella cause a range of symptoms that can lead to serious health complications.

• Measles infects the lungs and breathing passages like the nose, mouth, and throat, and spreads throughout the body.
• Mumps and Rubella can both cause swelling of the head and neck, rash, and other symptoms. Mumps and rubella are now extremely rare in the U.S.
• Varicella, or “chickenpox,” causes an itchy rash that lasts about a week. Other common symptoms include fever, fatigue, and loss of appetite. 

The Alzheimer's Association

would like to invite you to participate in 

Purple Power Worship, an opportunity for your faith community to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and help members to access services.

WHY SHOULD YOUR FAITH COMMUNITY PARTICIPATE?

• Raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease.
• Hear testimony from families in your congregation affected by the disease.
• Learn the latest information on research and public policy efforts.
• Connect congregants to valuable programs, services, and support.
• Identify members of your community to plan ongoing activities to educate and raise awareness.

TO PARTICIPATE IN PURPLE POWER WORSHIP, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU:

• Select an individual who will represent your congregation and work to implement the Purple Power Worship event in your congregation.
• Promote the day by encouraging congregants to wear purple.
• Provide the opportunity for persons with dementia and their caregivers to share their stories.
• Host a table of resources and information before and after. Materials will be provided by the Alzheimer’s Association.

If your faith community would like to participate in Purple Power Worship

Understanding the most common health threats men face is the first step toward prevention. Here are a few to be aware of:

• Heart Disease: The leading cause of death for men in the U.S.
• Prostate Cancer: One of the most common cancers in men, especially those over 50
• Testicular Cancer: Most common in younger men, but highly treatable if caught early
• Depression & Anxiety: Often underdiagnosed due to stigma
• Type 2 Diabetes: Strongly linked to diet, exercise, and lifestyle factors
• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): A silent killer that can be detected with a simple screening

UNDERSTANDING WHERE CHOLESTEROL COMES FROM

Taking Proactive Steps for Better Health

This Men’s Health Month, men are encouraged to:

• Schedule routine health screenings (blood pressure, cholesterol, prostate, etc.)
• Get active — aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains
• Limit alcohol and avoid tobacco
• Talk about mental health and seek support when needed
• Connect with local clinics for affordable care options

The Faith Center assists faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship in their efforts to strengthen families and enhance the health and well-being of all Americans. Learn more.

Visit the Resource Center

Toolkits, Guides, and Resources for faith-based entities, community organizations, and houses of worship.

Virginia Helping Elders Access Resources (HEAR) is an award-winning program that equips Virginians with the knowledge and tools to prevent and respond to elder mistreatment. Through a focus on elder justice and ageism, the training promotes a community-based, multidisciplinary approach that connects older adults, their families, and caregivers with vital information and local resources. Virginia HEAR is fully funded by the Administration for Community Living.

We're delighted to share that Virginia HEAR is now available as a free online course, complete with a digital badge to recognize your learning and commitment to elder justice.

Access the free online course through the VCU College of Health Professions Course Catalog.

National HIV Testing Day

Kaiser Family Foundation’s Greater Than HIV/STDs campaign and Walgreens are partnering with 480 health departments and community organizations to produce the largest-ever National HIV Testing Day activation at 580 stores on June 27, 2025. Help promote events in your jurisdiction with these tools:

• 2025 National HIV/STD Testing Day Digital Toolkit with downloadable graphics for NHTD Events, HIV/STD testing, draft social media posts, and more
• Event webpage with map of Walgreens locations listing local testing partners and tests available.

Free help to quit tobacco. Quit Coaches available for support.  A free 24/7 service for all Virginians, 13 and older for all types of tobacco/nicotine. 1-800-QUIT NOW (1-800-784-8669) or text READY to 34191 www.QuitNowVirginia.org

Click HERE, to request brochures and other free resource materials!