After identifying a major gap in available research into men’s health in Queensland, My health for life recently undertook a study of its own to determine what the State’s men think about health and their lifestyle habits.
The research targeted more than 1200 men, 18 years and above, from diverse backgrounds across Queensland. The study also included a qualitative component with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and culturally and linguistically diverse focus groups. The findings were released at a stakeholder presentation at Queensland’s Parliament House and in a series of presentations to health professionals. My health for life shared the information in a bid to create more awareness of men’s health and to present a current, comprehensive picture of attitudes and behaviours relating to this Queensland demographic.
Key findings included:
The findings have prompted My health for life to trial of several men-only health groups in a bid to get more men to improve their health.
The groups are now planned for
Marg Hegarty, who is coordinating the pilot for My health for life, said places are now available for men who are interested in taking part in the men only sessions. Participants do not have to live in the area to join any of the groups, if they are willing to travel. Marg appealed to In The Loop readers to reach out to men who could be good candidates for the program. Anyone who is interested should contact My health for life on 13 74 75.
“The findings made us question whether there was more we could do as a program to support men,’’ she said.
“We know some men prefer to talk about their health in the company of other men. The groups will focus on how men can support each other,’’ she said.