The impact of HIV / AIDS on mens health: an action imperative [editorial]

The life expectancy of men in the United States is about 6 years fewer than that of women. Male infants are more likely to die in their first year of life than female infants. These statistics provide a small glimpse into the disparity that exists in mens morbidity and morality. Mens health is not an exclusive male phenomenon. It is a particular concern for men; however mens health issues directly and indirectly impact women as it affects their fathers husbands sons and brothers. Therefore mens health is not a gender-exclusive phenomenon but one that transcends the individual family community institutions and society as a whole. HIV infection is one disease process that continues to exert a significant impact on mens health. The disparity of HIV infection in men has been present since the beginning of the HIV epidemic. (excerpt)