An impressive range of attendees were present at the White House Dialogue on Men’s Health on January 8th. Participants included representatives from Men’s Health Network, management from several NFL teams (who emphasized that they care about the health of their fan base), individual physicians (including one who works nationally with the YMCA), and Kenny Braswell of fellow fatherhood organization Fathers Incorporated, who gave an inspiring talk on fathers and men’s health.
The dialogue centered around how to engage men in their own positive healthcare practices. Most pertinent to our work at The Fatherhood Project was the discussion on how to positively involve fathers in their own healthcare. The strongest suggestion was to appeal to fathers based on their importance to their children, wives and partners. We know from research that a father’s health affects the health of his children and family (physically, emotionally, and economically). By appealing to men’s instinct to protect their families, organizations can encourage men to take care of their own health.
Likewise, when it comes to overcoming the barriers of where/how to reach men, it was suggested that organizations engage entire families in healthcare settings. By bringing men in to their children’s well-child appointments, for example, we create an opportunity to encourage them to care for themselves as well.
The Fatherhood Project is working to engage fathers at the time of pre-natal visits, a time when they are aware of their importance to others and concerned for their wives/partners who need support. Obstetric services are a great access point to fathers. In our recent study, we reached over 400 men in a two-week period, and learned about the health issues facing new and expecting fathers. Based on our research, we are currently collaborating with the Obstetric service at Massachusetts General Hospital to create interventions for men and fathers in prenatal care.
Thank you to all the presenters and attendees at the White House men’s health event. The ideas and strategies discussed were stimulating and important to our work for fathers and families.