The culture of men’s mindful attitude toward their health in the context of managing demographic processes

On the basis of statistical material and sociological research, the authors demonstrate the crisis nature of demographic processes in Russia in general and focus in particular on men as a risk group for premature mortality. The analysis of demographic indicators shows that the continuing excess of mortality over the birth rate is due in no small part to the excess mortality of the male population of working age. It is noted that despite the difference in the biological resistance of the male and female organism, the reasons for the increased mortality of men lie not only in this difference, but also in their insufficiently formed culture of careful attitude to their health. The author’s sociological research, conducted among 6280 male respondents selected on the basis of a representative sample, reveals negative health practices in the life of Russian men and identifies stable patterns of men’s behavior that negatively affect their health. The study pays special attention to the analysis of socio-cultural determinants, which create significant barriers to seeking timely medical help. It concluded that Russian men pay insufficient attention to physical activity, tend to have unhealthy eating habits, are reluctant to undergo medical examinations, often fail to comply with treatment regimes and adopt a passive attitude to health issues. The study identified three dominant patterns of behavior in men’s attitudes to health issues: orientation towards the state health care system, emphasis on environmental factors and psychological stability, and emphasis on personal responsibility. The data show the prevalence of a passive attitude in which responsibility for health is delegated to medical institutions, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of preventive measures. The authors argue that it is necessary to apply health-building and health-enhancing technologies of demographic management to men. Special emphasis is placed on the development of specific communication strategies to overcome harmful stereotypes and to motivate men to adopt healthy lifestyles.