THE HON WARREN SNOWDON MP
Minster for Indigenous Health, Rural and Regional Health and Regional Services Delivery
RICHARD MARLES MP
Member for Corio
DARREN CHEESEMAN MP
Member for Corangamite
9 July 2010
Minister for Rural and Regional Health, Warren Snowdon said Australian men have to confront the reality of the health risks that can see them die earlier than their female counterparts.
Mr Snowdon was as guest speaker a men’s health leadership forum in Geelong today, and attended with the Member for Corio Richard Marles, and Member for Corangamite, Darren Cheeseman.
Mr Snowdon said that life expectancy for Australian males was 79 years, compared to 83 for women.
“Some Australian men are in denial about the health risks they face. Research shows that men, especially younger men, are more likely to drink alcohol at dangerous levels, use illicit drugs, and to drive dangerously.”
The leading causes of death in men are heart disease, some forms of cancer, and stroke.
In May, the Australian Government announced the nations’ first male health policy, and an addition $16.7 million in funding to help address male health issues.
“The policy encourages men to make the right choices about ways they can improve their own health, while showcasing the wide range of support mechanisms available to help them to do this,” Mr Snowdon said.
The policy is based on the latest available evidence; it tackles issues men face in accessing health care; engages men about their health; raises awareness of the relevant health issues and targets men at risk of poor health.
The policy’s $16.7 million funding includes funding to: support men’s sheds through the Australian Men’s Sheds Association, help support the first national longitudinal study on male health; and develop health promotion material for males at all stages of their lives.
Media contact:
Alice Plate (Snowdon) 0400 045 999
Pauline Braniff (Marles) 0419 664 016
Jo Taylor (Cheesman) 0416 241 653