Speaking to a gathering of men during a health awareness event staged at Pointe Seraphine, facilitated by Saint Lucia Cruise Port, Dr. Benjamin said the purpose of his presentation was simple but urgent; to jolt men into taking their health seriously.

“Today was about bringing awareness to Caribbean men’s health, especially our Saint Lucian men. We have long-standing challenges such as the diseases affecting men, the stigma attached to men seeking medical attention, and the refusal to take symptoms seriously. Stronger, healthier men make stronger families, stronger communities, and better leaders.”

Dr. Benjamin stressed that too many men wait until illness becomes severe before seeking medical attention. Early detection, he said, must be the new norm.

“Men need to learn about screening, early detection, and lifestyle changes. If we want a healthier society, our men must start by taking responsibility for their own wellbeing,” he added.

He outlined a worrying surge in noncommunicable diseases affecting younger and younger males.

Among the most pressing concerns, Dr. Benjamin highlighted the rise in cardiovascular disease now appearing more frequently in men in their 30s and 40s; an increase in cancers, particularly prostate cancer, which continues to be one of the leading causes of male mortality in Saint Lucia; persistent mental health struggles that men often ignore out of fear of being perceived as “weak”; and widespread substance abuse, including marijuana, cigarette smoking, and harmful levels of alcohol, all of which he said have a significant impact on men’s long-term health.

He stressed that ignoring these realities is costing families and communities dearly.

Lancelot Arnold, Director of the Saint Lucia Cruise Port, welcomed the initiative and said he was encouraged by the turnout of men who stepped forward for screenings conducted by medical professionals.

“We’re pleased to participate in this International Men’s Day observance,” Arnold said. “Men often avoid dealing with their health. As Dr. Benjamin said this morning, we tend to believe that checking on our wellbeing somehow makes us appear weak.”

Arnold urged men to stop depending on their partners to manage their medical needs.

“Men must take active interest in their own health, not just when they’re young and strong, but throughout life. Today’s turnout shows that men are willing to step up when given the opportunity.”

Saint Lucia Cruise Port partnered with healthcare providers to offer free blood pressure checks and other screenings, a move Arnold said helps men “know their numbers” and catch health issues early.

Both Dr. Benjamin and Arnold emphasized that the culture surrounding men’s health must change, and urgently as failing to act is costing lives.

And unless men begin taking ownership of their physical and mental health, the cycle will continue.

International Mens Day is celebrated under the theme: Celebrating Men and Boys.