SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — On May 31, the UMass Amherst Henry M. Thomas III Center at Springfield hosted the Men’s Health Forum 2025, drawing hundreds of attendees from across Western Massachusetts. Organized by Baystate Health, the UMass School of Public Health & Health Sciences, and Men of Color Health Awareness (MOCHA), the event aimed to tackle longstanding disparities in men’s health outcomes through education, engagement, and empowerment.
The forum featured a series of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and interactive workshops focusing on preventive care, mental health, and chronic disease management. Attendees had the opportunity to participate in health screenings and sessions designed to provide practical tools for improving personal health. The event’s overarching theme emphasized the importance of cultural competency and community engagement in promoting health equity.
Dr. Michael Curry, CEO of the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers and a prominent public health advocate, delivered the keynote address. In his speech, Dr. Curry highlighted the necessity of tailored interventions that consider the unique challenges faced by men in diverse communities. He stressed the importance of addressing social determinants of health and implementing policies that promote equitable access to healthcare services.
“We must recognize that health disparities are deeply rooted in systemic issues,” Dr. Curry stated. “By acknowledging and addressing these factors, we can develop strategies that truly meet the needs of our communities.”
The forum also included workshops on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, and stress management. Healthcare professionals provided guidance on navigating the healthcare system, understanding health insurance options, and accessing community resources. These sessions aimed to equip attendees with the knowledge and skills necessary to take proactive steps toward better health.
Organizers emphasized the significance of community involvement in addressing health disparities. By fostering partnerships between healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents, the forum sought to create a collaborative approach to improving men’s health outcomes.
“Community engagement is crucial in our efforts to promote health equity,” said a representative from MOCHA. “By working together, we can develop culturally competent programs that resonate with the populations we serve.”
The event concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration among stakeholders to implement actionable strategies for enhancing men’s health across the region. Attendees expressed optimism about the potential impact of the forum and the importance of continued efforts to address health disparities.
The Men’s Health Forum 2025 serves as a reminder of the critical need for targeted, community-driven initiatives to improve health outcomes for men, particularly those in underserved populations. By prioritizing cultural competency and community engagement, such events can play a pivotal role in advancing health equity.