June marks Men’s Health Month in Kenya, a time to spotlight the unique health challenges our fathers, brothers and sons face and why they seem to face them in silence. Statistically, men are more likely to suffer from lifestyle diseases like hypertension, diabetes and certain cancers, not because they are biologically weaker, but because they often ignore the warning signs. “Mwanaume ni effort,” they say — but that mindset of pushing through pain instead of seeking help may be costing lives.
One major risk is the ‘manly’ culture that discourages men from opening up about their mental or physical health. Add to that risky behaviours like excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, poor eating habits and skipping regular check-ups, and you have got a recipe for preventable illness. In Kenya, men are also more exposed to occupational hazards, especially in industries like construction and transport, yet regular health screenings are still seen as a “luxury.”
This Men’s Health Month, let’s flip the script. Men, taking care of your health is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a mark of wisdom and strength. Talk to your doctor, get that blood pressure checked and don’t shy away from speaking about mental health. Your family needs you healthy, not heroic. It’s time to change the story — because mwanaume pia hujipenda.
