I will never forget the day I attended the funeral of a friend, gym owner, and soldier. The ceremony was gut-wrenching, but the moment that truly broke me was when they handed his son the folded American flag. His son’s reaction eviscerated my emotional defenses, making my wife grab my arm to keep me up. This experience shattered any illusions I had about invincibility and forced me to confront the reality that our time here is not guaranteed.
For men in their 30s and 40s, like myself, this realization is even more pressing. According to new research published in the Journal of the American Cancer Society, the future looks ominous if we don’t act now. By 2050, cancer cases among men are expected to nearly double, with a equivalent rise in cancer-related deaths. The choices we make today, in our 30’s and 40’s, will have a direct impact on our chances to avoid cancer taking us from our loved ones earlier than expected.
Imagine being in a room filled with 10 million men. Now, picture that by 2050, nearly twice as many men—about 19 million—will be diagnosed with cancer each year. That’s a staggering increase, and it means that the number of men affected by cancer is set to blow up over the next few decades.
But the numbers are even more concerning when we consider the projected rise in deaths. Currently, about 5 million men die from cancer each year. By 2050, that number could more than double to over 10 million. This isn't just a statistic—it's something every middle-aged male should consider and start making little changes to give yourself a better chance as time continues to drive on.
In Wisconsin, many men avoid discussing health concerns or seeking medical help until it’s too late. This "tough it out" mentality leads to lower rates of preventive healthcare and screenings, which means that serious conditions like cancer often go undiagnosed until they’re much harder to treat.
Our community’s rural character also plays a role. Access to healthcare can be limited, and long-standing norms often prioritize work and family over personal health. It’s time to change that narrative and put our health first. Taking care of yourself IS taking care of your family.
Wisconsin’s economy has long been embedded in manufacturing, agriculture, and construction—industries that come with significant health risks. Working in these fields can frequently expose someone to carcinogens like asbestos, diesel exhaust, and various industrial chemicals. This exposure can have a lasting impact as we age, and the health issues may not come to fruition until years or decades later.
Let’s face it—Wisconsin has a drinking problem, I mean culture. Beer is a staple at almost every social event, and binge drinking is a common occurrence. Unfortunately, this tradition is reflected in our health statistics. Wisconsin consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for excessive alcohol consumption, and this behavior significantly increases the risk of several cancers, including those of the liver, throat, and esophagus.
Smoking, while on the decline, remains a significant issue in our state. Approximately 16% of adults in Wisconsin still smoke, which is higher than the national average. Combine this with our obesity rates and a diet that often revolves around heavy, processed foods, and we little chance to make definitive changes in our current state.
Now that we understand the risks, what can we do about it? Here’s where we can take control of our health and change the narrative:
%2520(Facebook%2520Post).png)
The numbers are startling, but they also present an opportunity, if we decide to take action. In Wisconsin, we have the power to change our health outcomes. Our state’s unique cultural, occupational, and lifestyle factors pose specific challenges, but they also provide clear areas where we can make impactful changes.
By participating in local health initiatives, such as community fitness programs or health fairs that offer free screenings, we can make a significant difference. Additionally, making small but meaningful changes to our diets—like incorporating more locally grown fruits and vegetables, drinking more water, less alcohol, and avoiding fast food—we can improve our overall health and reduce cancer risks.
The future of men’s health in Oshkosh is at a critical moment. The rising cancer rates predicted for 2050 are not a forgone conclusion if we start taking preventive measures now compared to 2045. As men in our 30s and 40s, we have the power to make choices that will protect our health in the long term and impact our family’s health. By prioritizing our well-being and making proactive decisions today, we can lead healthier, longer lives and set an example for the next generation in our communities.
Are you ready to make a change? Ardent Fitness in Oshkosh, WI, is here to support your journey to better health. We understand the unique challenges faced by our community and are committed to providing you with the tools and resources you need. From personalized fitness programs that cater to your specific needs, to nutritional guidance tailored to local Wisconsin diets, and accountability that address the realities of our daily lives, we have you covered.
Follow this LINK to set up a No Sweat Intro. It is Free and a great way to see if we are a good fit for your goals!
%20(Instagram%20Post).png)
.png)
.png)
.png)
.png)