Subject
title
Proclamation Declaring June 15-21, 2026, as Men’s Health Week in Rockville, Maryland
end
Department
City Clerk/Director of Council Operations Office
Recommendation
Staff recommend the Mayor and Council read and approve the proclamation.
Discussion
International Men’s Health Week 2025 is June 15-21, 2026
Men’s Health Week originated in the United States in 1994 and has since spread to countries around the world. The week was established as an opportunity to address the disparities in men’s health outcomes and advocate for improved health education and awareness among men.
Led by Men’s Health Network, representatives from six leading men’s health organizations around the world met at the 2nd World Congress on Men’s Health in Vienna, Austria, in 2002 and resolved to work together to launch International Men’s Health Week (IMHW). The goal is to increase awareness of male health issues globally and to encourage inter- and intra-national institutions to develop health policies and services that meet the specific needs of men, boys, and their families.
By focusing on preventive measures, early detection, and proactive health management, Men’s Health Week plays a crucial role in encouraging men to take responsibility for their well-being. It aims to reduce the stigma surrounding men’s health issues, promote open dialogue, and empower men to make informed decisions about their health.
Men’s Health Week 2026 presents a valuable opportunity to prioritize men’s well-being, address health challenges, and promote healthy lifestyles. By actively participating in this empowering week, we can make a positive impact on the lives of men in our communities. Whether it’s encouraging regular check-ups, organizing educational sessions, engaging in physical activities, sharing health information, or supporting men’s health organizations, every effort counts towards creating a culture of proactive and holistic health among men.
Let us embrace Men’s Health Week 2026 as a time to raise awareness, foster open conversations, and empower men to take control of their physical and mental well-being. Together, we can make a difference and inspire a healthier future for all.
Men’s Health Week/Men’s Health Month
This awareness period was created by Senator Bob Dole and Congressman Bill Richardson with support from Men’s Health Network. It was passed by the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1994 as Men’s Health Week (The Week ending on the U.S. Father’s Day). Men’s Health Week is still celebrated as “a special awareness period recognized by Congress and the President’ and international Men’s Health Week is celebrated around the globe.
Men’s Health Month (June) is an annual awareness period designed to heighten the awareness of preventable health problems (mental and physical) and encourage early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. Medical professionals and community activities use this opportunity to encourage regular self-exams and screenings.
Men’s Health Week is a dedicated week that shines a spotlight on the unique health concerns impacting men. It serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing and managing health issues proactively. Men’s Health Week encourages men to take charge of their well-being, make informed decisions about their lifestyle choices, and seek appropriate medical support when needed.
Wear BLUE Day is celebrated on the Friday of Men’s Health Week (Friday, June 19, 2026).
Mayor and Council History
The Mayor and Council proclaim this proclamation annually.
Public Notification and Engagement
‘Wear Blue Day,’ an annual event during Men’s Health Week, occurs on Friday, June 19, 2026.