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OU Health hosts Men''s Health Summit to offer free screenings

OU Health Leads the Charge in Men's Wellness with Inaugural Health Summit and Free Screenings

In a proactive push to address the often-overlooked aspects of men's health, OU Health, the renowned healthcare system affiliated with the University of Oklahoma, recently hosted its inaugural Men's Health Summit. The event, held at the bustling OU Health Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City, drew hundreds of attendees eager to learn about preventive care, early detection, and holistic well-being. Designed to break down barriers and encourage men to prioritize their health, the summit featured a lineup of expert speakers, interactive sessions, and, most notably, complimentary health screenings that could potentially save lives.

The summit kicked off with an opening address from Dr. Michael Anderson, a leading urologist at OU Health and one of the event's key organizers. Dr. Anderson emphasized the critical need for such initiatives, pointing out that men statistically lag behind women in seeking regular medical check-ups. "Men's health isn't just about treating illnesses; it's about preventing them," he stated during his keynote. "Too many men wait until symptoms become severe, and by then, it might be too late. This summit is our way of saying, 'Let's change that narrative.'" His words resonated with the audience, many of whom shared personal stories of delayed diagnoses among family members or friends.

One of the summit's highlights was the array of free health screenings available on-site. Participants could undergo tests for common yet serious conditions affecting men, including prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests for prostate cancer detection, blood pressure checks to assess cardiovascular risks, cholesterol screenings, and even mental health evaluations. These services, typically costing hundreds of dollars out-of-pocket, were provided at no charge, thanks to sponsorships from local businesses and health organizations. Attendees like John Ramirez, a 52-year-old construction worker from Norman, expressed gratitude for the accessibility. "I haven't seen a doctor in years because of work and costs," Ramirez said. "Getting screened here today might have just caught something early. It's a game-changer."

The event delved deeply into various facets of men's health, with panel discussions covering topics from physical fitness to mental resilience. A session on prostate health, led by oncologists from the Stephenson Cancer Center, highlighted alarming statistics: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer among men in the United States, with over 288,000 new cases expected this year alone, according to the American Cancer Society. Experts stressed the importance of early screening, particularly for men over 50 or those with a family history. They explained how PSA tests, combined with digital rectal exams, can detect abnormalities before they progress to advanced stages, significantly improving survival rates.

Cardiovascular health took center stage in another popular workshop. Cardiologists from OU Health discussed how heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men, often exacerbated by lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and stress. Attendees learned about modifiable risk factors, such as maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking. Interactive demonstrations included blood pressure monitoring and tips for incorporating heart-healthy habits into daily routines. One speaker, Dr. Elena Vasquez, a preventive cardiologist, shared insights on the "silent killers" like hypertension, which affects nearly half of American men but often goes unnoticed until a major event like a heart attack occurs.

Mental health, a topic gaining much-needed attention in recent years, was not sidelined at the summit. In a candid panel titled "Breaking the Stigma: Men's Mental Wellness," psychologists and counselors addressed the unique challenges men face, including societal pressures to "tough it out." Depression, anxiety, and suicide rates among men were dissected, with data showing that men are less likely to seek help, leading to higher rates of untreated conditions. Guest speaker Marcus Thompson, a former athlete and mental health advocate, shared his personal journey with depression after a career-ending injury. "Men are taught to be strong, but true strength comes from vulnerability," Thompson told the crowd. The session included free consultations with mental health professionals, encouraging participants to take that first step toward better emotional health.

Beyond the medical focus, the summit incorporated lifestyle and wellness elements to make the event engaging and comprehensive. Fitness experts from OU Health's wellness programs led short exercise demos, showcasing simple routines for busy schedules. Nutritionists provided advice on balanced diets, debunking myths about "manly" eating habits that often prioritize quantity over quality. Topics like sleep hygiene and stress management were woven in, with practical takeaways such as apps for tracking sleep patterns or mindfulness exercises to reduce daily anxiety.

The summit's location at the Stephenson Cancer Center added a layer of significance. As a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to cancer research and treatment, it served as a reminder of OU Health's commitment to innovation in healthcare. Attendees toured parts of the center, learning about cutting-edge treatments like immunotherapy and precision medicine, which are transforming outcomes for men's health issues, particularly cancers of the prostate, testicles, and colon.

Community involvement was a cornerstone of the event. Local organizations, including the Oklahoma Prostate Cancer Coalition and the American Heart Association, set up booths with informational resources. Volunteers distributed pamphlets on everything from testicular self-exams to recognizing signs of colorectal cancer. The summit also fostered networking opportunities, allowing men to connect with support groups and peers facing similar health journeys.

Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciated the non-intimidating atmosphere, which contrasted with traditional doctor's visits. "It felt like a community gathering rather than a medical appointment," said attendee David Lee, 45, from Edmond. Organizers reported that over 300 screenings were conducted during the day-long event, with several individuals referred for follow-up care based on preliminary results.

Looking ahead, OU Health plans to make the Men's Health Summit an annual affair, expanding its reach to include more rural communities in Oklahoma where access to healthcare is limited. Dr. Anderson hinted at future additions, such as virtual sessions for those unable to attend in person and partnerships with employers to promote workplace wellness programs.

This initiative by OU Health underscores a broader movement to empower men to take control of their health. In a state like Oklahoma, where rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease are higher than the national average, events like this are vital. By offering free screenings and education, the summit not only addresses immediate health needs but also plants the seeds for long-term cultural change. Men who attended left not just with test results, but with knowledge, motivation, and a renewed sense of agency over their well-being.

The success of the summit highlights the importance of targeted health campaigns. As Dr. Anderson aptly put it, "Health is wealth, and for men, investing in it early pays dividends for a lifetime." For those who missed the event, OU Health encourages scheduling regular check-ups and utilizing their online resources for ongoing support. In an era where preventive care is key, initiatives like this are paving the way for healthier futures.

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