Every year on November 19, International Men’s Day shines a spotlight on the contributions, challenges, and health of men worldwide. Paired with Movember, the global campaign promoting men’s health through growing moustaches and raising awareness, this month is an ideal time to prioritise the physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing of men.
This year’s International Men’s Day theme, “Men’s Health Champions,” encourages everyone—men, families, healthcare providers, and communities—to advocate for healthier lives for men and boys. Let’s delve into how we can champion men’s health, from raising awareness of key issues to fostering open conversations and regular health check-ups.
Understanding the State of Men’s Health
Men often face unique health challenges. Statistics reveal that men are more likely to die prematurely from preventable diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. They are also less likely to seek medical help for physical or mental health issues.
Some key concerns in men’s health include:
- Prostate Cancer: One of the most common cancers in men, affecting 1 in 8 Australian men during their lifetime.
- Mental Health: Men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, often due to societal pressures to suppress emotions.
- Cardiovascular Disease: A leading cause of death among men, largely influenced by lifestyle factors.
- Testicular Cancer: While less common, it primarily affects younger men and requires regular self-exams for early detection.
These issues underline the importance of regular check-ups and creating environments where men feel comfortable discussing their health.
Movember: A Movement for Men’s Health
Movember began as a light-hearted challenge—grow a moustache in November—but has evolved into a global movement funding research, programs, and awareness campaigns for men’s health.
This Movember, you can get involved by:
- Embracing the mo as a conversation starter.
- Gathering friends, colleagues, or community groups to raise funds for men’s health initiatives.
- Sharing stories across social media to spread awareness and inspire others.
Becoming a Men’s Health Champion
The theme of “Men’s Health Champions” urges individuals and groups to take proactive steps in improving men’s health outcomes. Here’s how you can help:
Encourage Preventive Health Checks
Routine health checks can save lives. Men should schedule annual GP visits to monitor their blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar levels, and overall health. Specific tests like prostate screenings and mental health evaluations are also crucial.
Promote Mental Wellbeing
Encourage the men in your life to open up about their feelings. Whether through casual conversations, professional counselling, or peer support groups, reducing the stigma around men’s mental health is key.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle
Diet, exercise, and sleep play vital roles in maintaining good health. Support men in setting realistic fitness goals, exploring balanced diets, and practising mindfulness or stress-reduction techniques.
Support Workplace Initiatives
Workplaces can play a significant role in fostering men’s health. Implement health workshops, flexible working conditions, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP).
Lead by Example
Men’s Health Champions inspire others by practising what they preach. Whether it’s quitting smoking, seeking help when needed, or becoming a Movember ambassador, your actions can motivate others.
Give a “Know Your Man Facts” Talk
The International Men’s Day website has provided five “Know Your Man Facts” toolkit presentations that you can personalise to your own requirements. These toolkits are a great way to get people thinking about what impacts the health of men and boys.
How Kirrawee Doctors Can Help
At Kirrawee Doctors, we’re committed to being Men’s Health Champions by providing:
- Health Assessments: Comprehensive screenings tailored to your age, lifestyle, and family history.
- Mental Health Support: Confidential counselling and guidance for managing stress, anxiety, or depression.
- Lifestyle Advice: Personalised plans to improve diet, fitness, and overall wellbeing.
- Proactive Care: Early detection tests for conditions like prostate or testicular cancer.
This International Men’ Day and Movember: Take the First Step
- Being a Men’s Health Champion isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about small, meaningful actions that inspire men to live longer, healthier lives. Whether you’re booking your next health check, growing a moustache, or simply starting a conversation, every effort counts. This November, let’s celebrate the men in our lives by championing their health. Together, we can make a difference—one conversation, one appointment, one moustache at a time.
Book an appointment with Kirrawee Doctors and join the movement for better men’s health.