Key points from article :
Men in England face significant health disparities compared to women, with a life expectancy gap of almost four years. They are more likely to suffer from serious conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, and have higher suicide rates, particularly among those under 50. In response, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) is seeking public input on England's first-ever men's health strategy to tackle these issues and close the health gap.
Health leaders emphasize the urgency of addressing preventable causes of early death among men. Health Secretary Wes Streeting highlighted that suicide is the leading cause of death for men under 50, and the strategy aims to target this crisis along with other pressing health challenges. The call for evidence invites feedback from a broad range of stakeholders, including the public, health workers, and academics, to shape the upcoming plan.
Movember's Amy O'Connor and Samaritans’ Julie Bentley stress the importance of addressing mental health and suicide prevention within the strategy. The initiative has been hailed as a critical opportunity for long-term change, with experts and organizations calling for a unified, strategic approach to men's health. The DHSC is gathering insights for 12 weeks to refine the plan and ensure it meets men's needs effectively.
