Chris Ho, a 32-year-old father from Vancouver, was diagnosed with testicular cancer in October of 2013. His experience facing the adversities of this public health emergency has surfaced as a big part of his story. As he experiences fatherhood with his two young sons, Caden and Liam, ages three and seven respectively, Ho appreciates frank discussion of health. For him, these conversations are essential for his sons’ safety and survival. His experience completely transformed his understanding of feeling and fierceness. It has fueled his passion to raise awareness of men’s health issues and end the silence.
This individual experience is reflected in larger trends, as was illustrated in a recent report called “The Real Face of Men’s Health.” Released by the Movember Institute of Men’s Health in collaboration with the University of British Columbia’s Men’s Health Research Program, the report highlights critical statistics and insights into the mental and physical health struggles faced by men across Canada.
A Growing Concern for Men’s Mental Health
Yet the most troubling finding in the report is that one in three men are isolated and lonely. Just as many exhibit symptoms of depression. These numbers highlight the severe, and often ignored, crisis in men’s mental health.
John Oliffe, a co-author of the report, made an insightful comment. He, a professor at UBC’s Faculty of Applied Science, said that pressure from society can make young people feel alone and isolated. He stated, “Even though ideas of masculinity are changing, there are hangovers from the ’90s and 2000s that men are still conflicted about.” Plenty of men haven’t abandoned the desire to live up to old definitions as protectors and providers. This narrow viewpoint tends to produce unbearable stress and disappointment.
Indigenous males suffer the most deaths overall from the five leading causes of premature mortality combined. This sobering statistic is a reflection of systemic racism that must be addressed with urgency and specific targeted interventions.
The Importance of Connection and Support
The report further focuses on the indispensable element of social connections to combat loneliness. Oliffe remarked, “They offer that social connection because loneliness can be a big killer for men.” Building these relationships and community through conversations on health, where men can feel less alone in their thoughts and experiences, is integral.
Chris Ho, an advocate who practices what he preaches, shows us this in how he shares his health experiences with his kids. “It takes strength and bravery to reach out and ask for help, more than it does to just suck it up,” he shared. He does this by sharing his journey, processing his own experiences as he goes. This newest aspect of his openness sets a strong example for his sons to see what vulnerability and emotional honesty can look like.
Yet the report releases an alarming reality. It’s a stark exposé that shows how 44 percent of Canadian men will not live to celebrate their 75th birthday. Oliffe explained, “We’ve long known men don’t live as long as women, but this report helps explain why and how we can focus on preventing it.”
Changing Perspectives on Strength
Chris Ho’s cancer diagnosis made him reconsider what strength and courage really meant. Reflecting on his journey, he stated, “I’ve never felt more courageous or strong than I do now.” This powerful metamorphosis confirms that strength lies beyond muscular toughness. It’s derived from the bravery to confront one’s vulnerabilities directly.
Ho’s upbringing shaped his initial beliefs about health. He recalled, “My dad was a traditional Chinese guy, born in Vietnam. You didn’t go to the doctor unless you had to.” This mentality frequently prevents men from seeking medical attention until it’s too late.
Oliffe underscored that the burden of health struggles is often disproportionately placed on men. Mothers and partners often take on the burden most during these tough times, often lose caregivers. “When a man isn’t doing well health-wise, the burden often falls on the caregivers in his life,” he noted. Addressing men’s health concerns requires a holistic approach that considers not only individual well-being but also the impact on loved ones.
