International Men's Day - what can we do to support!

Today is International Men’s Day! Originally kicking off in 1992, International Men’s Day is based on the Six Pillars which aim:

to promote positive male role models
to celebrate men’s positive contributions
to focus on men’s health and well being
to highlight discrimination against males
to improve gender relations and improve gender equality
to create a safer, better world

This year’s theme is positive role models, so let’s all try to be positive role models by promoting awareness for these men’s health issues.

Prostate Cancer

As reported earlier this year by the Office of National Statistics, prostate cancer now kills more men a year than breast cancer kills women. But what else do we know about prostate cancer?

There are around 130 cases of prostate cancer diagnosed every day in the UK
Since the early 90’s, prostate cancer incidence has increased more than 44%
In the UK, there are 31 deaths a day attributable to prostate cancer
1 in 6 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime

What can we do!?

There’s no national screening test for prostate cancer due to the unreliability of prostate specific antigen tests, but you can be aware of the symptoms and speak to your GP if you have concerns. Symptoms include: frequent urination, the urge to urinate frequently at night, weak or interrupted urine flow, discomfort or pain when sitting.

Testicular cancer

There are around 6 cases of testicular cancer diagnosed every day in the UK
Since the early 90’s, testicular cancer incidence has increased more than 27%
In the UK, there’s approximately one death a week attributable to testicular cancer
1 in 215 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer in their lifetime

What can we do!?

Most cases of testicular cancer are first found by men themselves, either by chance or self-exam. So check your (or your partner’s) testicles! You should consult your GP should you find any unusual lumps, and they’ll decide whether further tests should be undertaken.

Mental health

Over 12% of men suffer from a common mental health disorder
In the UK, there are 12 deaths a day attributable to male suicide and it is the most common cause of death for men aged 20 to 49 years old
1 in 4 people will be diagnosed with mental health problem in their lifetimes
Men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women
Men are three times more likely to become alcohol dependant than women
Men are half as likely to seek help for mental health issues than women

What can we do!?

Talk. The more we talk about mental health, the more it’s destigmatised. The rate of male suicide has decreased significantly over the last two years, no doubt due to people talking about mental health more openly. Talk to your friends, your partner, your colleagues – your employer will most likely have an anonymous Employee Assistance Helpline who will offer free advice and counselling if necessary. If you notice a friend or colleague looking stressed or overwhelmed, talk!