Men's health a top priority for AMA
AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, today called for a federally funded national men and boys' health program to address the serious and complex health issues which confront Australian men.
Speaking at the 5th National Men and Boys' Health Conference in Cairns today, Dr Glasson said the health of men and boys must be a priority for governments, decision makers and the medical profession.
Dr Glasson said men are traditionally more reluctant than women to acknowledge health problems and see a doctor.
"Statistics show men, particularly young men, are facing more and more complex mental health problems," Dr Glasson said.
"The AMA is particularly concerned about the high suicide rates for rural and indigenous men.
"Suicide is motivated by many issues including relationship failure, alcohol and financial disadvantage.
"Responsibility for improving the health of men and boys is an issue for all of us - parents, educators, employers, recreational providers and others.
"Poverty, lack of education, poor nutrition, geographic isolation, lack of employment or underemployment - all undermine health.
"The role of men is changing but employment and social environments are not supportive enough yet to give men the flexibility they need to fulfil new roles.
"Funding for public health strategies such as prevention and harm minimisation constitutes only 2% of health budgets.
"Research has shown that investment of resources to build and maintain health and wellbeing saves health costs. These resources are urgently needed - now," Dr Glasson said.
The AMA has supported men and boys' needs in submissions to government on a range of issues including drug and alcohol use, reproductive health and blood borne diseases.
The AMA's Men's Health Award acknowledges major contributions to men's health in Australia.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306