Why Men’s Health in India Deserves Urgent Attention
By Bharat Men’s Health Foundation (BMHF)
In India today, the silent crisis surrounding men’s health is growing more urgent with every passing year. While national conversations around healthcare are increasingly inclusive and progressive, one demographic continues to be overlooked: Indian men.
It’s time we confront the facts, challenge old stereotypes, and begin a national movement toward better health for the men who are often expected to stay “strong” while silently suffering.
The Numbers Tell a Clear Story
- On average, men in India live 4.2 years less than women.
- Suicide rates among Indian men are more than twice that of women, especially in the 15–39 age group.
- Men are more likely to die from preventable diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, liver failure, and hypertension.
- Fewer men seek medical help early, often delaying treatment until conditions become severe.
Cultural Silence and Stigma
In many Indian households, men are taught from a young age to “tough it out” and avoid showing weakness. While this mindset may be rooted in tradition, its consequences are dire. Men are:
- Less likely to seek mental health support
- More likely to engage in substance abuse
- Less likely to undergo routine checkups or screenings/li>
Health Is More Than Just the Body
The conversation around men’s health must expand beyond physical illness to include:
- Mental Health: Depression, anxiety, burnout, and even PTSD are real—and treatable.
- Sexual Health: Erectile dysfunction, low testosterone, and reproductive health are rarely discussed yet widely experienced.
- Emotional Well-being: Men need safe spaces to express fear, grief, and vulnerability.
Why BMHF Exists
BMHF was founded to address this silent crisis. We believe:
“Stronger health leads to a stronger Bharat.”
Our mission is to::
- Break the stigma around men’s health
- Advocate for early screening and preventative care
- Normalize mental health support
- Provide reliable, India-specific health resources
- Create inclusive campaigns and community-driven change
This Is About More Than Just Men
When men’s health suffers, families and communities suffer too. Improving men’s health uplifts everyone.
- Higher healthcare costs for families
- Reduced productivity and income
- Strained relationships and increased domestic stress