Men die, on average, six years younger than women, for reasons that are largely preventable. According to the Men’s Health Forum, 67% of men are overweight or obese and middle-aged men are twice as likely to have diabetes as women of the same age. Three-quarters of premature deaths from heart disease are male. Prostate cancer is currently the most common cancer in men. By 2030, it is set to become the most common cancer overall in the UK.

Here are some useful websites and resources that pharmacy staff can recommend to pharmacy customers – or even contact themselves if they would like to learn more.

Men’s Health Forum carries out research into, and raises awareness of, men’s health issues. The charity has produced award-winning illustrated mini health information guides, in partnership with Haynes and written specifically for men, on a range of topics, including stress, drinking, diet, heart health and cancer. The charity also produces professional ‘how to’ guides on engaging men and men’s health services, as well as holding one-day training workshops. This year’s Men’s Health Week takes place from 12 to 18 June.

For more information, www.menshealthforum.org.uk.

Movember Foundation is a charity tackling men’s health on a global scale, all year round. It addresses some of the biggest health issues faced by men. Movember is a moustache growing charity event held during November each year that raises funds and awareness for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. At the start of Movember, men sign up with a clean-shaven face. The Movember participants have the remainder of the month to grow and groom their moustache, raising money along the way to benefit men's health.

For more information, visit https://uk.movember.com.

Prostate Cancer UK aims to improve the care and welfare of those affected by prostate cancer. The charity invests money into research to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, as well as raising awareness of the disease through fundraising and events. It also provides specialist nurses, peer support and information, as well as training for healthcare professionals.

For more information, visit https://prostatecanceruk.org. Helpline: 0800 074 8383

 

Orchid aims to save men’s lives from testicular, prostate and penile cancers by pioneering research and promoting awareness. The charity can provide awareness talks, support materials for health promotion events and downloadable resources through its website. Orchid’s dedicated Health and Wellbeing Awareness Programme is designed to deliver important health messages about male cancer – it includes community-based roadshows, information days and awareness events.

For more information, visit https://orchid-cancer.org.uk. National Male Cancer Helpline: 0808 802 0010.

 

Mankind Initiative helps men escape from domestic violence or abuse, both physical or mental, by their current or former wife or partner (including same sex partner). The charity provides emotional support and practical information and welcomes all donations to keep the helpline running.

For more information, visit http://new.mankind.org.uk. Confidential helpline: 01823 334244 (weekdays 10am to 4pm).