The Hon. Warren Snowdon MP Minister for Indigenous Health The Hon. Kate Lundy MP Minister for Sport
Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon, joined Minister for Sport, Kate Lundy, and Sydney Swans star Adam Goodes to highlight Men’s Health week (starting Monday 11 May).
Download NACCHO Mens Health Policy paper here
Mr Snowdon said young men, in particular, often ignored their health, indulging in too much booze and being prone to engage in risky behaviour.
“Young blokes have a tendency to feel bullet proof. But too much booze, smoking and other risk taking behaviour can have serious, immediate and long-term consequences,” Mr Snowdon said.
“Too many young fellas end up at emergency departments after drunken tomfoolery goes wrong.
“Young men also often don’t notice the effect alcohol and drug abuse may have on their bodies.
It might be a decade before the side effects come back to haunt you. That’s why it’s important young men understand what you do now can either help or hurt you down the track,” Mr Snowdon said.
Senator Lundy said the event highlighted the positive impact sport, especially team sports, can play in preventative health.
“It’s well known that moderate, regular exercise is one of the best prescriptions for a healthy lifestyle.
“But team sport and working out with a mate can also have a positive impact on tackling anxiety and depression.
“Men no longer have to adopt a ‘she’ll be right’ attitude when it comes to their health, it’s okay to talk to a mate if you are feeling down. Teaming it with a work out is even better,” Senator Lundy said.
Mr Snowdon said statistics from population health surveys showed men aged between 18-24 are much more likely to require treatment for injuries (making up around 80 per cent of all cases).
Young men are also less likely to eat enough fruit and vegetables and account for two thirds of all deaths from injury – the most common causes being road crashes and falls.
Media contacts
Minister Snowdon: Lidija Ivanovski 0407 108 935/Marcus Butler 02 6277 1820
Minister Lundy: Jessica Hill 0407 926 077/02 6277 7977