As Men’s Health Month continues through June, Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) is doubling down on a state-wide initiative to promote preventive care among men. The mid-June push highlights alarming health disparities and encourages routine screenings as essential steps toward long-term well-being.
American men, on average, are significantly less likely than women to seek annual check-ups or engage in preventive health practices. According to Texas HHS, this reluctance contributes to higher rates of chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and various cancers. To address these issues, the agency launched a multifaceted campaign focused on improving access to care, raising awareness, and emphasizing early detection.
Texas HHS partnered with community clinics, nonprofit groups, and local governments to expand the availability of free and subsidized health screenings throughout June. These events provide vital checks for blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose levels, prostate and testicular cancer—conditions that, if caught early, can often be treated more effectively.
Organizations such as Gift of Life coordinated large-scale health fairs, offering over $500 in screening services per participant at no cost. One such event in Lumberton on June 7 drew over 130 attendees and included consultations with licensed physicians, nutrition advice, and mental health resources.
Beyond physical exams, the state campaign includes outreach materials and virtual education aimed at demystifying preventive care and encouraging men to take control of their health. Slogans like “Know Your Numbers” and “Be Proactive, Not Reactive” have been used to promote the benefits of regular health maintenance.
The campaign also addresses a critical yet often overlooked component: mental health. Nationally, men are nearly four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and in Texas, mental health remains a growing public concern.
Lesley Jimenez, Statewide Wellness Coordinator for the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), emphasized the importance of integrating mental health screening into routine care. “We want to ensure that men not only check their physical health but also seek help for stress, depression, and anxiety—issues that are just as important and sometimes harder to talk about,” she said.
Counties like Hidalgo and Zavala issued official proclamations declaring June as Men’s Health Month, encouraging public and private employers to promote mental health resources and employee wellness check-ins.
One key focus of the campaign is dismantling cultural and logistical barriers that keep many men from seeking medical attention. Surveys cited by Texas HHS show that many men avoid doctor visits due to cost, lack of insurance, or the perception that they don’t need care unless symptoms arise. Others cite time constraints or the stigma associated with acknowledging health concerns.
To combat this, health officials and advocacy groups are emphasizing accessible, no-cost services and framing preventive care as a sign of strength and responsibility—not weakness. Community leaders are also leveraging barbershops, sports leagues, and faith-based organizations to reach men in familiar, trusted spaces.
Public events across Texas have been central to building momentum. Local health fairs, free clinics, and community screenings have taken place in cities like San Antonio, Dallas, Houston, and rural counties where access to healthcare is limited. At many events, attendees received incentives like grocery gift cards, meal vouchers, or branded fitness gear for completing screenings.
Texas HHS also partnered with organizations such as the American Heart Association and regional hospitals to provide educational workshops, webinars, and digital health tracking tools.
While June serves as a spotlight month, Texas HHS officials stress that preventive health should be a year-round focus. The department hopes the visibility and engagement generated this month will translate into lasting behavioral change among Texas men.
“We want to shift the culture toward proactive health decisions,” said a Texas HHS spokesperson. “Men should feel empowered to ask questions, seek care early, and view health as a lifelong investment.”
