On June 13, 2025, communities across the United States turned a shade of blue as men participated in “Wear Blue Day,” an annual event held during Men’s Health Week. The initiative is part of a broader campaign led by the Men’s Health Network to shine a light on preventable health issues that disproportionately affect men and boys. Through this visual demonstration, organizers aimed to promote conversations around early detection, regular check-ups, and healthier lifestyle choices for men.
A National Call to Action
“Wear Blue Day” serves not only as a symbolic gesture but also as a powerful call to action. By wearing blue, individuals and organizations demonstrate their commitment to improving men’s health outcomes. The campaign emphasizes diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, prostate and testicular cancer—conditions that are often diagnosed in later stages in men due to lower healthcare engagement.
The event is a central part of Men’s Health Week, which runs from June 10 to June 16 this year, and aligns with the broader observance of Men’s Health Month throughout June. Its goal is to address the roughly five-year life expectancy gap between men and women, a disparity largely driven by preventable causes and delayed medical care.
Nationwide Participation
Corporate offices, government buildings, schools, and health organizations participated in “Wear Blue Day,” with many encouraging their employees and members to dress in blue and share photos on social media using the hashtag #ShowUsYourBlue. This digital campaign helped amplify awareness, fostering a sense of community and collective action around men’s health.
In addition to wearing blue, organizations hosted health fairs, free screenings, fitness challenges, and educational talks. Health departments in cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and San Francisco collaborated with nonprofits and local businesses to provide accessible health resources to men of all ages. In Washington D.C., the Department of Health hosted an open forum featuring experts in men’s health discussing preventative measures and policy efforts.
Health Disparities and Awareness
Statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlight that men are less likely than women to visit a doctor, more likely to engage in risky behaviors, and face higher rates of substance abuse and suicide. This disparity underscores the importance of initiatives like “Wear Blue Day,” which seek to normalize health conversations among men and encourage preventive care.
Dr. Jean Bonhomme, founder of the National Black Men’s Health Network, has long advocated for culturally tailored health campaigns. “We need to meet men where they are,” he has said in past interviews, “and make health care something that feels accessible, relatable, and stigma-free.”
The Role of Employers and Communities
Employers have been pivotal in spreading the message of Men’s Health Week. Many human resources departments used the occasion to roll out wellness newsletters, schedule biometric screenings, or host lunch-and-learn sessions on nutrition, stress management, and mental health.
Faith-based organizations and community centers also played a key role, particularly in underserved areas. These grassroots efforts help bridge the gap in healthcare access and awareness, offering an entry point for men who may be hesitant to engage with the formal medical system.
Continuing the Conversation
“Wear Blue Day” is not a one-time event—it serves as the launchpad for continued engagement throughout the year. The Men’s Health Network and its partners encourage individuals to use the momentum from June’s initiatives to build lasting habits. This includes scheduling annual check-ups, knowing family medical history, and talking openly about mental and physical well-being.
With chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes continuing to impact men at higher rates, sustained public health attention remains critical. Events like “Wear Blue Day” offer not only visibility but also a sense of solidarity—reminding men that their health matters and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
