Amy O’Connor
Global Lead, Policy & Advocacy, Movember
Men’s health is at a turning point. Learn how targeted initiatives could help men and their communities thrive.
This year’s International Men’s Day is like no other before it in the UK. It has come at a critical point, as for generations, men’s health has lacked focus and investment. The statistics paint a stark picture: men die younger, with two in five dying prematurely. Three out of four suicides are men, and often, they don’t have the tools to take a proactive, preventative approach to their health, which supports early diagnosis and treatment.
Why this year is a turning point for men’s health
For the first time on International Men’s Day, a men’s health strategy is on the horizon. It will be in focus in Westminster, and across the country, men and their loved ones could benefit.
Last year’s announcement marked a landmark moment — a long-overdue recognition that men’s health requires national focus. Yet, the real test lies in what happens next. Movember is calling for a strong, bold and funded men’s health strategy that will make a lasting and tangible impact on the issues facing men’s health.
In Ireland, targeted initiatives have been credited with saving
thousands of years of life since their introduction in 2009.
The need for strategic health policies
Movember and its partners in the men’s health sector have spent the past year ensuring men’s voices are heard. By participating in community conversations, organising sector meetings and engaging with MPs, experts and partners, our message became clear: men’s health needs a strong strategy.
Globally, there’s proof that national men’s health policies work. In Ireland, targeted initiatives have been credited with saving thousands of years of life since their introduction in 2009.The UK now has the chance not only to catch up but also to become a world leader in the space.
However, meaningful change in men’s health policy will need funding, leadership and accountability. Movember is calling for the appointment of a men’s health ambassador, gender-specific data to track the strategy’s progress and investment in community-led grassroots programmes that reach men where they are — in workplaces, sports clubs and online spaces.
Lasting impact of men’s health initiatives
Because ultimately, this isn’t just about men. When men live longer, healthier lives, families and loved ones benefit, workplaces are more productive and communities become more connected.
This International Men’s Day, the Government has a rare opportunity to change the story for millions of men and boys — and, in doing so, contribute to a healthier country.
