For a variety of reasons, men in the United States report poorer health than women. According to the National Library of Medicine, beliefs about masculinity and manhood, which are deeply rooted in culture and supported by society, play a role in shaping behavior patterns in ways that have serious consequences for men’s health. Traditionally, men are expected to project strength, individuality, and autonomy, but avoid showing emotion or vulnerability that could be interpreted as weakness.
In an effort to change these paradigms, King Culture, Inc., a nonprofit organization that develops young people as selfless leaders, is partnering with Emory Hillandale Hospital and other health care providers on an educational podcast series called “Plan for longevity”. The series aims to equip men with the knowledge and skills needed to live productive lives and leave a legacy for generations to come. The series promotes open dialogue about understanding family history, the importance of prevention, and changing some of the harmful patterns associated with poor health outcomes.
“For most men, health is just not something we like to talk about. But if we’re going to be there for those who need us most, we’ll have to make physical and mental health a priority. This is personal to me,” says King Culture, Inc., co-founder of Domonic Purviance.
“Having faced several health challenges over the years, I have learned so many lessons that I want to pass on. Through this work, I am optimistic that we can help change the narrative. My hope is that men will not only prioritize their health more, but will be equipped to make decisions while they’re young that will ultimately lead to better long-term health outcomes.”
Purviance continues to say, “Working alongside Emory Hillandale Hospital and other healthcare professionals allows us to deliver accurate and inspiring presentations to support our longevity plan.”
Promoting better community health is also a labor of love for co-founder Yvette Broughton.
“I lost both my parents within a year of each other and I believe prevention could have given them more time. I want to help families survive and thrive together for as long as possible,” says Broughton.
“Navigating health care for yourself or being an advocate for another is not easy, but an integral part of being a selfless leader. It’s never too early to prepare or prevent loss.”
“Working with King Culture, Inc., to present this vital information is a win for everyone,” says Emory Hillandale Hospital Vice President of Operations Joe D’Angelo. “There are many misunderstandings in the community about when, where and how to receive medical treatment. Podcasts will allow us to deliver accurate information to those who need it most.”
D’Angelo talks about “Navigating the Health Care System” in an episode that is available here.
Andrew Dixon, MD, with Northwest Nephrology Clinic, discusses why “Prevention is part of the plan” in another available episode here.
Other episodes to be released in the coming weeks include chief hospitalist Ovid Barrow, MD, and specialty director of surgical services Corey Brown.
In addition to the podcast series, King Culture’s Blueprint for Longevity initiative includes a health inventory study that allows men to assess how well they are managing their health. The initiative also provides useful insights to help men develop their own personal health strategy. For more details, see Website lifetime plan.
Subscribe to the series and receive notifications of new episodes at youtube.com/kingcultureinc. Tune in each week to follow the conversations and share them with the men in your life.
Follow us on Facebook @kingcultureinc @emoryhillandale or on Instagram @kingcultureinc.
