When Chuck Norris was born, he drove his mom home from the hospital.

When Chuck Norris does a pushup, he isn't lifting himself up – he's pushing the Earth down.

Chuck Norris doesn't cheat death. He wins fair and square.

There is an Internet full of Chuck Norris jokes like this that humorously exalt the actor, author, and martial artist’s legendary status as a tough guy and beacon of good health. Unfortunately, the “cheating death” line proved false on March 20, when Norris passed away at age 86 from an undisclosed medical emergency. Just days before, he had posted a video celebrating his health while showing off his boxing skills.

Norris lived an active, healthy life – a decade past the average mortality age for males in the United States – exactly because he didn’t believe in myths when it pertained to his health. He ate a nutrition-dense diet of lean proteins, fruits, and leafy greens, avoiding processed sugar, alcohol, and refined oils. He rarely ate after 6 p.m. to help with digestion and sleep. He regularly exercised through resistance and water training, and religiously practiced mindfulness.

A healthy diet (including the avoidance of alcohol and tobacco), regular exercise, consistent sleep, and practicing mindfulness are the hallmarks of good health. Throw in regular visits to your doctor, and you have the recipe for a longer and more active life.

These are the truths of good health, facts that are espoused like a Chuck Norris karate chop each June as part of Men’s Health Month. The annual awareness observance exists to educate men on better health and dispel many of the myths that contribute to men having a life expectancy a full five years lower than women.

9 Men’s Health Myths

When Chuck Norris lifts weights, the weights get in shape.

The flu gets a Chuck Norris shot every year.

Chuck Norris’ tears cure cancer. Too bad he never cried.

Fairly sure none of the above are true. Healthcare experts will also tell you that the common health perceptions of men listed below are either specious or flat-out myths. The explanations that follow will hopefully clear things up, kind of like one of Mr. Norris’ roundhouse kicks.

1. “I’m healthy because I feel fine.” Many serious conditions – such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes – develop silently for years. Feeling fine doesn’t always mean everything is fine.
2. “I don’t need annual checkups.” Preventive care becomes more important with age. Regular screenings help catch issues early, when they’re most treatable.
3. “Heart disease only affects older men.” Risk factors often begin in the 30s and 40s, and early lifestyle habits have a major impact on long‑term heart health.
4. “Low testosterone is the cause of all my symptoms.” Fatigue, weight gain, and low mood can stem from many causes – sleep, stress, nutrition, or underlying medical conditions – not just hormones.
5. “Prostate issues only matter after 50.” Family history, urinary symptoms, or other risk factors can make earlier conversations with a clinician important.
6. “Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.” Stress, anxiety, and depression affect men of all ages. Seeking support is a sign of courage, not a weakness.
7. “If I exercise, I can eat whatever I want.” Diet plays a key role in metabolism, heart health, and energy – especially as metabolism naturally slows with age.
8. “Sleep doesn’t matter as long as I get through the day.” Poor sleep increases risks for weight gain, heart disease, mood changes, and reduced performance at work and at home.
9. “Erectile dysfunction is just a normal part of aging.” While more common with age, ED can signal cardiovascular issues or other health concerns worth discussing with a clinician.

Men’s Health Tips

Chuck Norris knows Victoria’s secret.

Time waits for no man. Unless that man is Chuck Norris.

Chuck Norris once had a heart attack. His heart lost.

The reality is that no man is Chuck Norris, the myth, and not enough men pursue good health like flesh-and-bones Chuck Norris did.

Self-care is essential, particularly in areas where men are more likely to experience health challenges compared to women. According to the CDC, men in the United States, on average, not only die five years earlier than women but also die at higher rates from the three leading causes of death: heart disease, cancer, and unintentional injuries.

Men, for instance, are far more susceptible to four types of cancer: colorectal, lung, prostate (duh!), and skin cancer. A few health-minded decisions – such as regular colonoscopies, quitting smoking, getting annual checkups/screenings, and using sunblock/skin coverings when in the sun – can reduce the risk of each of these cancers or lead to early detection and a better chance of survival.

Men’s Health Month encourages men to take control of their health and stick to the aforementioned habits, recommended by St. Francis - Emory Healthcare, that are essential to better health:

• Exercising regularly
• Eating healthier (and avoiding alcohol and tobacco)
• Getting adequate sleep
• Practicing mindfulness
• Attending regular checkups with a medical professional

The monthly observance also encourages open conversations about mental health and the importance of seeking support when needed, as men are typically less likely to seek help for mental health issues.

Men’s Health Support

A wonderful way to put your manly health journey on the right track is to visit one of St. Francis Medical Group’s primary care providers. If you don’t currently have a physician, you can find one here. A consultation with a professional can identify ways to improve your health, prevent illnesses, and maybe even help you learn to make onions cry, just like Chuck Norris.