This year’s campaign will run from June 15 to 21 and focus on four critical issues: encouraging GP visits, improving First Nations men’s health outcomes, increasing bowel cancer awareness and promoting better sexual health.
“Us blokes are great at looking after everyone else, but we're not always great at looking after ourselves,” said Federal Member for Hunter Dan Repacholi, who is the Special Envoy for Men’s Health.
“This Men’s Health Week is about changing that.
“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, preventable illness and premature death, many men continue to delay seeking medical care.
Research shows about 60 per cent of men wait more than a week to see a doctor when experiencing symptoms, while one in three delay seeking help for more than a month.
“A lot of men think getting checked out is a sign something’s wrong,” Mr Repacholi said.
“The truth is, getting checked is one of the smartest things you can do.
“Too many families have lost dads, brothers, sons and mates because health issues weren’t picked up early enough.
“This week, do yourself a favour, make the appointment, have the conversation and put your health first.”
The Men's Health Week campaign highlights the '101 Reasons to See Your GP' initiative by The Healthy Male, encouraging men to take proactive steps towards better health through regular check-ups, preventive screening and early intervention.
Improving health outcomes for First Nations men remains a critical national priority.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men continue to experience disproportionately high rates of chronic disease, poorer health outcomes and significantly higher rates of suicide than non-Indigenous Australians.
The week also shines a spotlight on bowel cancer, one of Australia’s most common cancers.
Early detection through screening remains one of the most effective ways to reduce deaths from bowel cancer, yet many eligible men do not complete the simple screening test when it arrives in the mail.
Men’s Health Week provides an opportunity to challenge stigma, improve health literacy and encourage men to seek support early, whether for physical health concerns, mental health challenges or preventative care.
For 101 reasons to see your GP, go to menshealthweek.com.au
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