Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Tuesday, 3 June 2025: June is recognised nationally as Men’s Health Awareness Month, and the Ministry of Health and Human Services is proud to take part in this important movement by launching a series of community-wide initiatives aimed at raising awareness, promoting preventive care, and improving health outcomes for men and boys across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Despite medical advances, men continue to experience poorer health outcomes than women in many areas. On average, men die nearly five years earlier than women and are more likely to suffer from heart disease, liver disease, and certain cancers. Mental health challenges such as depression and suicide are also under-diagnosed and often untreated among men, largely due to stigma and societal pressure to “tough it out.” Studies show that men are more likely than women to suffer from mental illness, and they face a greater risk of heart disease and stroke. Men in routine and manual jobs are more prone to smoking and chronic health problems. Moreover, diagnoses of both prostate and testicular cancer have been on the rise since the early 1990s.
Compounding these health risks is the fact that men are often slower to recognize symptoms and less likely to consult a healthcare provider when they do. This tendency to delay care contributes to poorer health outcomes and missed opportunities for early intervention.
The good news is that men can take control of their health—starting with a few simple, practical steps:
- Schedule a yearly check-up with your healthcare provider to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, and overall wellness.
- Get screened for prostate cancer, colon cancer, and other conditions based on your age and risk factors.
- Exercise for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week—whether it’s walking, cycling, playing football, or even dancing at home.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables and reduce intake of salt, sugar, and processed foods.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol—resources and support are available through health clinics.
- Check in on your mental health—talk to someone you trust or seek professional help if you’re feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
- Talk to your doctor about sexual and reproductive health.
- Get enough sleep—aim for 7–8 hours a night, as poor sleep affects everything from mood to heart health.
“This month is not just about statistics—it’s about starting real conversations. Men’s Health Month is not just about awareness, it’s about action,” said the Honourable Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services. “We want to encourage men to prioritise their health and to remove the barriers—cultural, emotional, and systemic—that often prevent them from seeking help. It’s time to break the silence. Let’s talk, check in, and take care of ourselves—for our families, our communities, and our future.”
Throughout the month of June, the Ministry of Health and Human Services will be engaging the public through weekly radio programs, island-wide panel discussions, a Men’s Health Symposium in Providenciales, and a national walk/run aimed at promoting physical activity and unity. These events are designed to educate, inspire, and support men in living healthier lives.
In addition, the Ministry is encouraging everyone to wear blue every Friday throughout the month as a show of solidarity and a way to spark conversations around men’s health. Participants are invited to share their photos and messages of support on social media using #MensHealthMonth and tag @tciministryofhealth on Facebook.
Whether it’s scheduling a checkup, opening up about mental health, attending a community event, or making healthier lifestyle choices, every step makes a difference. The Ministry of Health and Human Services is here to support all men in taking charge of their health and well-being.
