Men across the Hunter are being encouraged to put their health first as Men’s Health Week begins today (Monday, June 15).
The annual campaign aims to start conversations around physical and mental wellbeing, with Federal Special Envoy for Men’s Health and Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi highlighting key issues affecting Australian men.
Repacholi is focusing on encouraging men to visit their GP, improving outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men, increasing awareness of bowel cancer and promoting better sexual health across the community.
“Us blokes are great at looking after everyone else, but we’re not always great at looking after ourselves,” he said.
“Whether it’s your physical health, your mental health, bowel cancer screening or something that’s been worrying you for a while, don’t wait. Go and see your GP.”
Despite experiencing higher rates of chronic disease and premature death, many men continue to delay seeking medical care. Research shows around 60 per cent of men wait more than a week to see a doctor when symptoms appear, while one in three delay seeking help for more than a month. Nine per cent of men don’t seek help at all.
Bowel cancer screening is another major focus, with experts warning many eligible men do not complete the free at-home screening test. Repacholi said breaking down stigma and normalising regular check-ups is key to improving long-term health outcomes.
“For all those blokes out there: make the appointment, have the conversation and put your health first,” Repacholi said.
