The initiative addresses concerning statistics showing about two-thirds of Australian men postpone medical consultations when experiencing health issues.
“The goal is to help men catch health problems early and feel more confident getting the care they need,” Healthy Male’s chief operating officer Simon von Saldern said.
“We’re encouraging men to take a bit of time and effort to see a GP – it’s often easier than people think, and it’s certainly less difficult than managing a health issue that’s been left too long.”
Western Sydney University Centre for Male Health director Associate Professor Emma George, stressed the value of establishing an ongoing relationship with a GP.
“A regular GP knows your health and medical history, understands your health goals, and can provide guidance on lifestyle behaviours and preventive care, like age-appropriate health checks,” she said.
The campaign features a pilot health check program in collaboration with SiSU Health, targeting workplaces, sporting organisations and community hubs.
“By reaching men where they live, work, play and connect — we can build healthier communities, one conversation at a time,” Emma said.
The initiative brings together various partners, including the Australian Men’s Health Forum, Australian Men’s Shed Association, MATES in Construction, and The Men’s Table, among others.
Men’s Health Week is a global initiative that takes place every June and focuses on all the factors contributing to men’s wellbeing.
Throughout the week, leading experts in the men’s health space highlight the challenges men face in prioritising their health and how both individuals and healthcare systems can overcome them.
Healthy Male is a national organisation, providing information for men’s health, collaborating with Australia’s leading researchers, specialists, clinicians and educators to develop information that fills the gaps in men’s health.
The Centre for Male Health within Western Sydney University brings together researchers from a diverse range of disciplines to improve the health and wellbeing of men and boys.
For more information or to access campaign resources, visit seeyourgp.org.au
