Men’s Health Awareness Day

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November is Men’s Health Awareness Month!

This month focuses on increasing awareness about the various health challenges men may encounter throughout their lives, including:

Testicular Cancer

In the UK, approximately 2,400 men are diagnosed with testicular cancer each year. This condition primarily affects men between the ages of 15 and 45, making it the most prevalent cancer among men aged 25-49, according to Cancer Research UK.

Nearly 47% of those diagnosed are under 35 years old, and each year, around 60 young men lose their lives to this disease. However, 98% of men survive for at least 10 years after treatment.

Visit the NHS website to learn about the symptoms of testicular cancer. 

Prostate Cancer

In the UK, approximately 52,300 new cases of prostate cancer are diagnosed each year, averaging more than 140 each day! One in six men in the UK will face a diagnosis of prostate cancer during their lifetime, with the highest prevalence among men aged 75 to 79. Each year, around 11,500 men lose their lives to this disease. However, 78% of men survive for at least 10 years after treatment.

Visit the NHS website to learn about the symptoms of prostate cancer. 

Mental Health Concerns

According to Gov.uk:

  • Men are three times more likely to commit suicide than women.
  • One in eight men experiences a common mental health problem.

The Mental Health Foundation reports that:

  • Men aged 40 to 49 have the highest suicide rates in the UK.
  • Men generally report lower levels of life satisfaction compared to women, according to the Government’s national well-being survey.
  • Only 36% of referrals to NHS talking therapies are for men, indicating they are less likely to access psychological support.

Additionally, men are more prone to going missing, experiencing homelessness, developing alcohol dependence, and using drugs.

If you’re concerned about your mental health or that of someone else, support is always available.

You can also:

  • Self refer to iCope via our website
  • Call your surgery to request an emergency appointment.
  • Out of hours? Call 111 for assistance in finding the support you need.
  • Contact your mental health crisis team if you have one.

Non-urgent advice: Is your life in danger?

If you have seriously harmed yourself—such as by taking an overdose — or if you feel you may harm yourself, please call 999 for an ambulance or go directly to A&E.

Alternatively, ask someone else to call 999 or take you to A&E.

If you have ANY health concerns, please contact the practice to book an appointment.

Remember, we are always here to listen.