MEN'S HEALTH

The Men’s Health Program is dedicated to addressing the unique health challenges faced by minority men by promoting awareness, prevention, and access to care.


REAL MEN TALK ABOUT HEALTH


Prostate Cancer in Black Men:  Did you know Black men face a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer—and at younger ages—compared to other groups? Our community-focused resources aim to change that by:

  • Clearing up common misconceptions.
  • Encouraging regular screenings.
  • Providing facts that inform proactive health decisions.
Three people at a table during a health fair, with flowers and a lit sign reading “WHEN YOU LOOK GOOD, YOU FEEL GOOD.”
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Group of people at a podium, with a sign that reads "You are not alone", in a building with pillars.
Group of people in a building, some standing near a podium, others on a staircase.
Table with brochures, pens, and packaged items, likely for a health or wellness event.

TELL TEN CHALLENGE RAISES AWARENESS

OF ALARMING MEN'S HEALTH STATISTICS

During a recent interview with WLBT, Warren Jones spotlighted the Tell Ten Challenge, a community-driven initiative designed to spark meaningful conversations about men’s health.


The challenge was inspired by alarming national data. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men consistently experience poorer health outcomes than women across several key indicators, including life expectancy, chronic disease, and preventable deaths.

CONFRONTING THE BLACK MEN'S HEALTH CRISIS

Warren Jones, Institute Epidemiologist, delivered a powerful presentation at the Black Men in Balance Summit on Saturday, September 13. The event focused on the theme “Black Men Health Crisis,” highlighting urgent health disparities, barriers to wellness, and pathways toward equity in Black men’s health.

About us

HEALTH, STRENGTH & LEGACY:  UPLIFTING MEN OF COLOR

The Institute for the Advancement of Minority Health’s Men’s Health Program addresses the unique health challenges and disparities affecting men of color, specifically African American men. This program promotes health equity, improves access to care, and supports healthy behaviors through targeted outreach, education, and community-based interventions.

PURPOSE

The program aims to reduce health disparities among minority men by increasing awareness, facilitating early detection of chronic diseases, and encouraging preventive care. Through the development of culturally responsive programming and safe spaces for discussion, the Men’s Health Program empowers men in Mississippi to take control of their health and improve their health outcomes.

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KEY ACTIVITIES

  • Community Engagement

    The program maintains a consistent presence in the community through recurring outreach events: 


    Billy Brumfield Men’s Shelter Initiative: 

    The Men’s Health program serves the unhoused at the Billy Brumfield Men’s Shelter.  Every third Thursday at 5:30 p.m., Institute staff and various partners provide health education, screenings, and resources tailored to meet the needs of the unhoused population in the City of Jackson (MS).


    Black Men’s Health Equity Council Task Force Meetings: 

    The Black Men's Health Equity Council is dedicated to advancing health equity for Black men in Mississippi. The council aims to revolutionize the well-being of Black males by enhancing the well-being of Black men holistically. The council focuses on imparting knowledge, raising awareness, delivering effective programs, and advocating for transformative policies.  This stakeholder group meets every fourth Thursday at 5 p.m., at Tougaloo College (Tougaloo, MS).


    Choppin’ It Up Barbershop Series: 

    The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Black men tend to have less frequent contact with physicians and other health professionals than their white counterparts. The Choppin’ It Up Barbershop Series is an innovative, hands-on way to provide wellness services in a comfortable environment. Culturally, the barbershop is a safe space for Black men. Through this series, Black men with access to medical personnel, basic health screenings, and wellness information that will reduce and prevent chronic illnesses. The series is implemented in Hinds County.


    Black Men's Health Equity Conference: 

    The Black Men’s Health Equity Conference is a one-day event dedicated to addressing health issues directly impacting Black men in Mississippi. Since its inception in 2023, the conference has featured renowned speakers such as Charles Taylor, Executive Director of the NAACP-MS; New York City Councilman and Exonerated Five member Yusef Salaam; and award-winning journalist Roland Martin. The conference is offered at no cost to ensure that critical health information remains accessible to all Black men seeking to improve their health outcomes.


    IAHM Teen Summit:

    The Teen Health Summit allows Metro Area Teens to discuss pertinent issues and develop solutions for change.  Sponsored by the Men’s Program, the summit features breakout sessions focusing on HIV/AIDS, emotional wellness, bullying, and nutrition.  

  • Health Screenings and Education

    The program provides essential health screenings (e.g., blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol checks) along with health literacy education to encourage early detection and informed decision-making.  Health campaigns such as Brother, Go Get Checked (prostate cancer), chronic disease awareness (high blood pressure, kidney disease, and diabetes), and emotional wellness assist in increasing positive health outcomes for Black men in Mississippi.


  • Coalition Building and Advocacy

    Through partnerships with local organizations, non-profits, churches, shelters, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the program fosters cross-sector collaboration to advocate for systemic change and improved health outcomes. 


GOALS

Increase the rate of preventive health screenings among minority men.

Build trust and engagement within underserved male populations.

Strengthen community partnerships to support long-term health initiatives.

Advocate for policies and programs that promote health equity for men of color.

IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES

Browse the photo gallery to relive the inspiring moments, celebrate the connections made, and see the incredible impact of coming together for better health.

TARGET AUDIENCE

The Men’s Health program services African American men and other men of color. Many, but not all, are low-resourced, uninsured/underinsured. Key populations include residents of shelters, barbershop patrons, college students, and men engaged through faith-based and community networks.

FUNDING SOURCES

  • Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
  • Higher Purpose, Inc.
  • MS Department of Health

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