Men’s Health Awareness in Ag

In agriculture, long hours, tough physical labor and unpredictable stress come with the territory. But how often do farmers take the time to think about their own health?

Men’s Health Month, observed each June, is part of a nationwide effort to raise awareness about preventable health issues and encourage men and their families to prioritize wellness. Men in the U.S. face higher rates of heart disease, cancer, obesity, diabetes and early mortality, and on average, live five years fewer than women.

Farming isn’t just physically demanding, it can also be isolating. That isolation, paired with the pressure to push through pain or ignore symptoms, often means health concerns go unaddressed.

This year’s Men’s Health Month theme, “Closing the Empathy Gap,” encourages better understanding and openness around men’s health struggles. Whether it's a neighbor, a farmhand or yourself, talking about health isn’t a weakness, it’s a sign of strength and foresight.

This June, take a few small but meaningful steps:

• Schedule a checkup or preventive screening
• Talk with your team about mental and physical health
• Make space for breaks and rest during busy seasons
• Lead by example — share your story, and listen to others

To learn more about how to support Men’s Health Month, visit the Men’s Health Network or the CDC’s NIOSH.