Age Concern gets behind Men's Health Week

MEDIA RELEASE - 12 June 2009

Age Concern gets behind Men's Health Week

Age Concern aims to serve the needs of older people, and next week men and their health needs are the focus of their work.

This year, Age Concern New Zealand and the College of Nurses (Aotearoa) NZ are marking Men’s Health Week from 15 to 21 June.

“Age Concern wants to use Men’s Health Week to send a strong message to men to get a health check,” says Age Concern spokesman, Alistair Stewart.

“And we’re not just targeting men with this message. Wives, partners, children – encourage your man to get a health warrant of fitness.”

“We New Zealand men have spent generations convincing ourselves that we don’t need to see a doctor.”

Age Concern New Zealand has called on Minister of Health Tony Ryall to give older men active help with their health.

"If there was a free preventative health check up offered to all men when they turn 50, they'd have much more chance of engaging with healthcare professionals, and maybe nipping health problems in the bud," Alistair Stewart says.

Statistics show men get less active encouragement – and are more reluctant – to see a health professional. In a survey of GPs, men had fewer tests and investigations and received less health advice than women. As a result, men can miss out on chances to improve their health and prevent illness.

Research also shows men don’t live as long as women, and are more at risk of accidents, injuries, suicide and some illnesses.

Age Concern is telling the stories of a range of men this year. Many of them have overcome health issues.

“These are men who overcame the ‘she’ll be right’ philosophy and got help with that lump, or that tender spot – or feeling 'under the weather' for too long.”

The last word goes to cancer survivor, Brian Mitcherson. He says having regular check ups with a GP and listening to your body’s signals are vital.

“If you think there’s something wrong, even something minor, go and get it checked. It could turn out to be nothing - or it could save your life!”

For more information see www.ageconcern.org.nz

ENDS

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