Since 1994, June has been designated as Men's Health Month.
Men's Health Week is celebrated each year as the week leading up to and including Father's Day. Today, specifically, is Wear Blue Friday, which is celebrated by private corporations, government agencies, sports teams and individuals to show their concern for the health and well-being of boys and men.
The designations are anchored by a congressional health education program and recognized by the White House.
Men's Health Month is celebrated across the country with screenings, health fairs and other events.
Why a focus specifically on men's health? We can only imagine that some of the impetus has to do with the reputation for the tough-guy stubbornness men have, specifically regarding their health.
That doctor-ordered diet? We'll start that tomorrow, after polishing off a rack of ribs, mound of fries and a six-pack of beer. Broken leg? We'll walk it off.
In addition, men are more susceptible to certain health issues. Men develop kidney stones about three times as frequently as women. On average, men also have shorter lifespans than women.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:
12.4 percent of men aged 18 and over are in fair or poor health.
31.6 percent of men aged 18 and over have had five or more alcoholic drinks in one day at least once in the past year.
55.6 percent of men aged 18 and over have met the 2008 federal physical activity guidelines for aerobic activity through leisure-time aerobic activity.
So, men, step up to the plate - not that dinner plate with ribs - and eat right, exercise and get your annual check-ups.
Women, this Father's Day consider giving the man in your life the gift of good health. Here are just a couple possibilities:
Grill accessories. Grilling can be healthy, if you focus on lean meats and vegetables. A vegetable basket, kebab skewers or grilling cookbook can be a good start.
Garden tools. This is really a two-for-one gift, since gardening can get your body moving, and since home-grown produce can be some of the healthiest things to eat.