Marg Hegarty, who is coordinating the men’ health pilot for My health for life, said places are now available for men who are interested in taking part.  Participants do not have to live in the area to join in any of the groups, if they are willing to travel.

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More than 10,000 Queenslanders have enrolled in the free healthy lifestyle program since its launch several years ago. While My health for life attracts a higher number of women participants, the men who join are more likely to complete the program with many often opting to re-join for a second time.

Marg says the recent research into men’s health was the catalyst for the pilot.

“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 and these groups will focus on how men can support each other.’’

As in the general My health for life program, the men will take part in six health coaching sessions over six months, breaking their health goals into small, achievable steps. At the same time, they will learn about ways to improve their general health and reduce their personal risk of developing serious health conditions.

“Often it is a case that people do not know where to start,’’ says Marg. “Our program gives people the starting point they are looking for and the support and motivation they need.’’