In the week of International Men’s Day 2023, the Rural Doctors Association of Australia is urging rural and remote men to ‘Be a man!’ and take the time to focus on their physical and mental health. The theme of IMD this year is Healthy Men, Healthy World.
‘While women can be very good at eating well, getting plenty of sleep, ensuring they put on sunscreen when outdoors, getting regular health checks and seeking mental healthcare, men unfortunately can be less adept at looking after their own health – and this is particularly true for those who live in the bush,’ said RDAA President, Dr RT Lewandowski.
‘It is critical, however, that rural and remote men take the time to look after their physical and mental health – and feel empowered to seek help early,’ he said.
‘We need to encourage more rural and remote men to get regular check-ups from their local doctor – including for heart health, skin cancer, prostate cancer, and bowel cancer – wear protective gear when working in dangerous occupations or being out in the sun, eat well, reduce the amount of alcohol they drink, quit smoking, exercise regularly, and feel comfortable to seek mental health help.
‘Sadly, 50 Australian men die each day from preventable causes before they reach the age of 75 – and men born in Australia are still dying an average of 7 years younger than women born in Australia,’ said Dr Lewandowski.
Men and boys account for
- 3 in 4 suicides
- 4 in 5 heart disease deaths under 75
- 3 in 4 alcohol-related deaths
- 3 in 4 road deaths
- 96 per cent of workplace deaths
- 70 per cent of deaths in young people aged 15-34
‘These worrying statistics could be vastly improved by men becoming more proactive in improving their own health and wellbeing, and feeling more empowered to seek help when they need it,’ said Dr Lewandowski.
‘We also encourage rural men to embrace their role of being a caring colleague, boss, coach, mate, father, son, and all the other roles they play in their community… as this is a very powerful way to change the culture around men’s health and well being, particularly in the bush.’
