Men's Health Month (June) and Native American Men
Men’s Health Month, observed each June, was created in 1994 to raise awareness about the health challenges men face and to encourage early detection, treatment, and health education. Originally established by the Men’s Health Network and recognized by Congress, this initiative has grown into a national effort to highlight preventable conditions, promote screening, and improve men’s mental and physical health. Blue is the symbolic color, and “Wear Blue Day” encourages people to show support for the cause.
For Native American men, the observance carries deep and urgent significance. American Indian and Alaska Native men face some of the most severe health disparities in the United States. According to the Indian Health Service (IHS), Native men have higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, liver disease, and certain cancers compared to their non-Native peers. Life expectancy is also significantly lower.
This isn’t just a public health statistic—it’s a reflection of historical trauma, colonization, broken treaties, systemic neglect, poverty, and a persistent lack of culturally competent care. Many Native men do not feel safe or welcome in clinical environments, especially when providers do not understand Indigenous worldviews or respect traditional healing practices.
Mental health is another area of concern. Native men, especially youth and veterans, face some of the highest suicide rates in the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that suicide rates among Native men are more than double the national average in some age groups.
Other barriers include:
Long travel distances to care in rural areas or insufficient urban Indian health programs
Cultural norms that discourage emotional expression or asking for help
Economic instability or lack of insurance coverage
Mistrust in health systems due to a legacy of mistreatment
Yet, there are also strengths. Traditional teachings emphasize balance, community responsibility, and the sacred role of men as protectors and providers. Resilience is strong in Native communities. More Native men are becoming health educators, case managers, and advocates for change.
Every Native man deserves the chance to live a long, healthy life grounded in tradition and dignity. Let’s honor our fathers, brothers, sons, and grandfathers by making men’s health a priority.
