Every year on 19 November, the world observes International Men’s Day, a global initiative dedicated to recognizing men’s contributions, improving men’s health outcomes, and promoting positive masculinity. While the day is marked worldwide, it carries unique relevance in Pakistan where men often shoulder social and financial responsibilities but may not prioritize their own health. For platforms like Instacare.pk, International Men’s Day provides an important opportunity to spark awareness, encourage early health screenings, and promote healthier lifestyles for men across the country.
What Is International Men’s Day and Why Is It Celebrated?
International Men’s Day was established to highlight key issues affecting men and boys worldwide. Celebrated annually on 19 November, the day aims to:
- Appreciate men’s positive contributions to families,
workplaces, and communities
- Promote gender balance and positive male role models
- Raise awareness about men’s physical and mental health
challenges
- Encourage responsibility, empathy, and healthy masculinity
Although the global conversation often focuses on mental health and fatherhood, the message applies universally: a healthier, happier male population benefits families, societies, and future generations.
Why International Men’s Day Matters for Pakistan
In Pakistan, men play a central role in family dynamics, economic contributions, and community leadership. Despite this, men’s health, especially preventive care, is frequently overlooked. International Men’s Day is a timely reminder that men deserve the same level of care, empathy, and health awareness that they work so hard to provide for others.
Here’s why this day matters deeply in the local context:
1. Men Delay Healthcare More Than Women
Studies worldwide show that men are less likely to seek medical help, even when symptoms persist. In Pakistan, cultural expectations of “staying strong” often prevent men from acknowledging discomfort, stress, or illness. This contributes to late diagnoses of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and mental health disorders.
2. Silent Mental Health Crisis Among Men
Men in Pakistan often face high pressure as providers and decision-makers. Social norms may discourage them from expressing vulnerability or seeking therapy, resulting in stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout that go unnoticed. International Men’s Day encourages open conversations about mental well-being and emotional health.
3. The Impact on Families and Society
A father’s or husband’s well-being affects the entire family ecosystem. When men are physically and mentally healthy, they contribute more positively to relationships, parenting, work culture, and community development.
4. Opportunity for Preventive Health Awareness
Platforms like Instacare.pk, along with healthcare service providers, can leverage this day to promote men’s screening packages, doctor consultations, and awareness drives, making preventive healthcare easy, accessible, and affordable.
Men’s Health: What Pakistani Men Should Prioritize
International Men’s Day is a perfect reminder for men to take charge of their own health. Here are essential areas that every man in Pakistan should pay attention to:
1. Regular Health Screenings
Preventive check-ups can detect health concerns early when they are easier and less expensive to treat. Important tests include:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC)
- Blood sugar levels
- Lipid profile
- Liver Function Test
- Kidney Function Test
- Testosterone levels (if applicable)
- Prostate health screening for men above 40
These routine tests help assess overall wellness and uncover silent medical issues.
2. Heart Health Monitoring
Pakistan faces a high prevalence of cardiovascular disease among men. Factors like smoking, stress, unhealthy diets, and lack of exercise contribute significantly. Routine ECGs, blood pressure checks, and cholesterol tests are essential.
3. Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Healthy masculinity includes expressing emotions and seeking support. Men should:
- Talk openly about stress
- Seek therapy if needed
- Build strong social connections
- Reduce stigma around mental health care
4. Fitness and Nutrition
Even simple lifestyle changes can yield profound health
improvements:
- 30 minutes of exercise daily
- High-protein, balanced diet
- Reduction in processed foods and sugary drinks
- Maintaining a healthy sleep schedule
Small, consistent steps produce long-lasting results.
How Instacare Can Support Men’s Wellness
International Men’s Day is not just about awareness it is about action. Instacare.pk offers convenient access to doctors, clinics, labs, and diagnostic services nationwide. By making healthcare easier to access, platforms like Instacare empower men to make informed, proactive choices.
Men’s Health Check-Up Packages
Men can easily browse and book discounted wellness packages, including CBC tests, hormonal profiles, heart health screenings, and more.
Access to Specialists
From cardiologists and psychologists to nutritionists and physiotherapists, Instacare.pk connects men with trusted healthcare professionals in just a few clicks.
Awareness Articles & Blogs
Educational content helps men understand symptoms, disorders, fitness routines, and preventive steps.
Stress-Free Appointment Booking
Instead of delaying doctor visits due to time constraints, men can schedule appointments online with ease.
How to Celebrate International Men’s Day in Pakistan
Here are meaningful ways individuals, families, workplaces, and communities can mark this important day:
- Encourage men in your family to get a routine health
check-up
- Spend quality time with fathers, brothers, sons, and
colleagues
- Start conversations about mental health and stress
- Organise workplace wellness sessions
- Encourage fitness habits, morning walks, gym routines, and sports
- Appreciate men for their contributions at home and work
Simple gestures can make men feel valued, respected, and supported.
Conclusion: Let’s Build a Healthier Future for Men
International Men’s Day is not merely a celebration it is
a movement toward healthier, happier, and more empowered men. In Pakistan,
where men often prioritise responsibilities over personal well-being, this day
is a reminder that health is not optional. It is essential.
Platforms like Instacare.pk can play a major role by making preventive healthcare accessible and encouraging men to take proactive steps. By raising awareness, promoting screenings, and supporting emotional well-being, we can help men lead longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.
