Looking out for men’s health

HARLINGEN — Did you know that heart disease and cancer are the leading causes of death among men?

It is estimated that 1,000 men in Cameron County will develop colon, prostate or lung cancer this year. Early detection can save lives, say Cameron County health officials.

In an effort to promote men’s health awareness month, the Cameron County Department of Health and Human Services is encouraging every man to wear a blue tie today.

The campaign is being called “Wear One for Your Sweetie.”

“On this day, we encourage Cameron County residents to wear a blue tie as a symbol of the importance of encouraging men to make healthy life choices, schedule annual checkups, and be informed of health issues that affect men, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and others,” said county health officials.

Health Administrator Esmeralda Guajardo said the goal is to make blue ties, the symbol for men’s health awareness, equivalent to what the pink ribbon is.

They have partnered with Texas Oncology-Harlingen and Bass Pro Shops to raise public awareness on the importance of men’s health by participating in the first Men’s Health Awareness Fair and 5K tomorrow at Bass Pro Shops in Harlingen.

This fair is aimed at bringing awareness of preventable health problems commonly found in men by offering free health screenings, providing educational information, as well as providing information on preventive care services available for men within the community.

All proceeds will go to benefit the Texas Oncology Foundation.