June is Men’s Health Month, and the 2026 theme is “Partners in Care: For Better Lifespans Across the Lifespan” which highlights the role that families, communities, and care partners play in supporting healthier outcomes for men.
At Sutter Health Plan, we recognize that men’s health issues often receive less attention and that many conditions affecting men are preventable or highly manageable with early care. As part of our commitment to health equity, we aim to raise awareness, encourage preventive care, and support men in taking an active role in their health.
Why Men’s Health Matters
Men’s Health Month encourages men of all ages to prioritize their physical and mental wellbeing. Men’s health is closely tied to the health of families, workplaces and communities, making prevention and early care especially important.
While some conditions disproportionately affect men — such as prostate cancer — many leading health concerns are shared by men and women, including heart disease, diabetes and depression. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for men in the United States.
Despite medical advances, outcomes for men continue to lag behind:
- Men in the U.S. live an average of 5–6 years fewer than women.
- Men are significantly less likely to seek preventive care or routine checkups.
- Men account for nearly 80% of suicide deaths, with rates almost four times higher than women.
These gaps highlight the importance of regular checkups, early detection and support from care partners.
Covered Preventive Services for Men
Sutter Health Plan members have access to a wide range of preventive services at no cost share, including:
- Colon cancer screening
- Comprehensive preventive care visits and counseling
- Hearing exams
- Preventive imaging services and lab tests
- Smoking cessation counseling and support
- STI screenings
- Vaccines and immunizations
Even if you feel healthy, schedule regular checkups. Many conditions are easiest to treat when caught early — often before symptoms appear. Book an appointment on My Health Online.
Supporting Men’s Mental Health
Mental health is a critical part of overall wellness, yet men are less likely than women to seek help. Recent CDC data show that about 10% of adult men experience depression, compared with higher rates among women — but men are significantly less likely to receive counseling or treatment. Only about one-third of men with depression report receiving therapy or counseling, compared with more than 40% of women.
Unaddressed mental health challenges increase the risk of substance use, chronic disease and suicide. Reducing stigma, recognizing symptoms of depression or anxiety, and having supportive partners and communities can make a lifesaving difference.
Sutter Health Plan members have access to confidential, in-person or virtual visits through Carelon Behavioral Health of California, Inc. To find a provider, visit carelonbh.com/sutterhealthplan.
We’re Here for You
Customer Service can help answer questions about enrollment, benefits, portal access and more. Call 855-315-5800 weekdays from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm, or email shpserviceteam@sutterhealth.org.