Epidemiology of male health across the lifespan: A comparison of state, national, and global data on health outcomes in males

Health policies in the U.S. (e.g. Healthy People 2020) and similar documents in Europe and other nations propose to improve population health by advancing health equity and eliminating disparities. However, among one of the most basic and notable disparities in health outcomes is based on sex. Data suggest males are at a considerable disadvantage in terms of health outcomes from preconception until death. Morbidity and mortality in male populations are alarming and unacceptable considering the advanced healthcare system and medical technology available in many nations. Racial/ethnic and socio-demographic disparities further add to the disadvantaged position male health occupies in the U.S. and abroad. Examining male health from a holistic lifespan perspective is likely to be of more social and financial value than approaching issues in isolation. Using major concepts of epidemiology (i.e., rates, incidence, prevalence, odds, etc.), and analyzing and applying them at various life stages, will help to develop a more complete picture of male health. Discussion will draw upon data that examine the confluence of variables affecting male health, such as biology and genetics, masculinity, gender-role conflict, culture, and socio-behavioral factors. The tools and processes of epidemiology and population health data will help highlight major foci of male health disparities. Additionally, building on these principles and having a holistic view of male health, practical strategies and possible solutions will be presented that provide a formative foundational approach to male health. Further, policy development and political implications will be presented and discussed in light of these data.