Running from 14 June to 20 June, Men's Health Week promotes awareness of the importance of good health in men, boys and their families.
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In Australia, Men's Health Week provides a platform for challenging and debating key issues in men's health and to raise the profile of men, their health outcomes and health needs around the country each June.
The health of men in most countries, including Australia, is generally poorer than that of women. At all ages men experience higher mortality rates than women for many cancers, diabetes mellitus, and diseases of the circulatory system.
Almost three-quarters of alcohol-related deaths occur in men and more than two-thirds of Australian men are overweight or obese. One in eight men experience depression at some stage in their life. More men have accidents and more men take their own lives.
Compared with women, men visit the doctor less frequently, have shorter visits, and only attend when their illness is in its later stages. Significant health problems such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, infertility, colon cancer and depression could be detected and treated more effectively if men's awareness of these problems was greater.
Health Services Officer Dan Keary said men's health includes not only physical illness but emotional and mental health concerns as well.
"By taking control of your own health, you can identify small issues before they become big problems," Dan said.
"I'd encourage all members to take The Man Test - an easy 15 question quiz designed to start the 'health conversation' with men," Dan said. "When you complete the test, you receive a simple checklist to take to your next doctor's appointment as well as several health tips.
"This is a great way you can quickly check in on your own health and your mates'," Dan added. "This year's theme is all about connecting so take the time to check in with your family, mates and loved ones."
Acting Manager Fleet Maintenance (West) Robert Chamings said Men's Health Week is an opportunity to think about your own health.
"Men's health, to me is the shared experiences good and bad that get you thinking about your own health and wellbeing."
Take action with the following steps:
- Find a GP you are happy with and have an annual check-up. National Health Services Directory | healthdirect.
- Help yourself by looking after your physical health, including your diet.
- CFA Members Online has a number of health services.
- For more facts and information on understanding these conversations, head to the Men's Health Week website.
Where to get help
- Your GP.
- A mental health specialist such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, counsellor or social worker.
- CFA Wellbeing Support Line - 1800 959 232, Member Assistance Program or other CFA wellbeing services.
- Lifeline - 13 11 14.
- GriefLine - 1300 845 745.
- Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636.
- The Australia Centre for Post-Traumatic Mental Health - (03) 9035 5599.
