Men’s Health
A recent health survey has shown that heart disease, prostate cancer, decreased energy levels and depression were rated as the most important health issues by men. The survey also revealed that men are more proactive about taking care of themselves, with 54% taking daily exercise, 72% not smoking and 74% claiming they eat a balanced diet.
It is common knowledge that men consult their family doctors much less than women do and yet men are more prone to accidents, violence, cancer and cardiovascular disease. Why is this I hear you ask? According to British researcher Clare Moynihan , who writes for the 'British Medical Journal', how men perceive themselves is crucial to how they respond to illness. In other words, typical male attributes such as aggression and suppressing their emotions, may result in them ignoring health problems.
Professor Tom O'Dowd who teaches general practice at Trinity College, believes that men are becoming more aware of health issues. He also thinks that they are more likely to obtain health advice from friends or by reading information, rather than from visiting their GP.
Links and Resources
-
Department of Health and Children
Action 15 of the Health Strategy stated that a policy for men’s health and health promotion will be developed. It was further stated that the Department of Health and Children will take the lead role... more » -
HealthHub.ie
Has useful information and articles on specific men's health issue such as cancer treatment services, information about your heart and strokes, understanding prostate cancer... more » -
IrishHealth.ie
Contains a list of questions and answers relating to men's health. Covers issues such as back pain, anxiety/depression, insomnia, high cholesterol... more »
