November is Men's Health Month

Floor Speech

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Mr. Speaker, in our national conversation on health and health disparities, we often forget that men face some unique health and health access challenges. So I rise today on behalf of men around the world to recognize November as Men's Health Month and to raise awareness for men's health issues.

Today American men face a mortality rate 41 percent higher than women. Life expectancy for men is 76 years compared to 81 for women. American men face a higher mortality rate than women for 8 of the 10 leading causes of death, including cancer, liver disease, and heart disease. Additionally, men are at increased risk of mental health problems and 4.1 times more likely to commit suicide than women.

These are serious issues facing men around the world. Every November men around the world grow out their mustaches to raise awareness for these and other issues facing men. While I won't be able to join my colleagues in growing facial hair to raise awareness, I will be working behind the scenes to spread the word. In the meantime, I urge my colleagues to become educated about men's health and to stay healthy.

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