Two urologists with Orlando (Fla.) Health — Jamin Brahmbhatt, MD, and Sijo Parekattil, MD — are heading out on a 3,000-mile road trip to encourage men across the country to be more open with one another and their families about their health.
A national survey commissioned by Orlando Health found four out of five men have never talked to a family member about sexual health. Women are 90 percent more likely to communicate with family about sexual health and health issues related to heredity like cancer and mental illness, according to a news release.
"Fathers and grandfathers need to start an open dialogue with their children," said Dr. Brahmbhatt. "Younger family members might not understand the benefits now, but I bet you when they get older, they'll appreciate that you had that conversation with them at an early age."
The Fourth Annual Drive for Men's Health will be held from June 3-10 with stops in Windermere, Fla., Orlando, Fla., Clermont, Fla., New Orleans, Houston, Los Angeles and Salt Lake City. During the trip, the physicians will invite men to accompany them to fitness events, bars, baseball parks and a 5K run to encourage men to be more open about their health.
"The whole concept is that, if we can do something that's fun and interesting, perhaps we can also incorporate some valuable health education into this and make it memorable for the people that are engaged with us," said Dr. Parekattil, "And just showing up and engaging in these events creates a great opportunity to turn to your son or other family member and start that conversation about your health."
To learn more about the event, click here.
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