Men reluctant about discussing health fears

MEN are worried about their general health but feel it is unmanly to discuss their fears with family or professionals, new research shows.

A series of workshops conducted with 500 men, aged 18-82, show that men are crying out for more information on their health needs and on various diseases.

Men’s Health Researcher Dr Paula Carroll, who conducted the research for a Department of Health steering committee on men’s health, admitted there is a contradiction in the way men approach their health.

“Men are very interested and conscious of their health but they believe talking about their health is a feminine thing and so there is a general lack of awareness on the subject. Men feel under big pressure to be a real man and to conform to the male stereotype,” said Dr Carroll.

“They all wanted more information. They suggested that talks could be given on male health through sporting organisations.” The research was conducted for the steering committee as part of the consultation process which will help them draw up Europe’s first men’s health policy.

Speaking at the launch of Men’s Health Week, Minister of State at the Department of Health Sean Power said men must start taking more responsibility for their health.