Working together for men's health

Scotlands men do not have a great reputation for health.  Our dietary habits and lifestyle choice has given us a poor record in terms of Coronary Heart Disease, diabetes, stroke and other health issues.

Life expectancy in some areas of the West of Scotland is significantly below the national average, and uptake of services by men is poor.  Part of the reasoning for this is that men feel they have to conform to percieved societal expectations of masculinity (Mens Health Forum Scotland), and view accessing health services as a weakness (we have all had a male relative who has stated 'i dont need to go a doctor' for one reason or another)

Some key Mens Health facts

• Men often don’t take time to care for their health even if they have worrying symptoms
• Health promotion events often focus on prostate and testicular cancer. Ill health caused through these is well recognised
• Prostate, lung and colorectal cancer account for 53% of all cancers in men
• CHD accounts for 1 in 5 of all male deaths
• 22% of man in Scotland are obese
• However many other issues tend to receive less attention – high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, road accidents and suicide are major causes of death, disability and ill health in men – what’s more, they’re preventable.
• Men generally smoke more, drink more and are more likely to be involved in risk taking and, as a consequence , accidents
• Mental health issues are now recognised as a priority for men. The increase in suicides by 78% among 14-24 year olds and 33% among 14-44 year olds (1980-1990) highlights the need for action in this area
• Men don’t make good use of health services and are less likely to discuss their health, or other sensitive issues with friends.