Men’s Health Week 9th-15th June: Take Charge of Your Health

It’s Men’s Health Week – a great time to press pause and check in on your wellbeing.

Whether you’ve been putting off that appointment or just haven’t felt quite yourself lately, this week is your reminder: your health matters.

Why Men’s Health Matters

Men in the UK still face big health challenges:

• On average, men live nearly four years less than women.
• Many of the top causes of early death in men – like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers – are largely preventable.
• Men are more likely to die from type 2 diabetes, even though it’s often linked to lifestyle and can be managed or even prevented with early action.
• Over 133,000 men die prematurely each year in the UK – that’s under the age of 75 – often from illnesses that could be spotted earlier or avoided altogether.
•  Suicide is the biggest killer of men under 50.

These facts might sound shocking – but they’re exactly why taking small steps now can have a big impact later.

Your NHS Health Check: A Simple Step That Could Save Your Life

If you’re aged 40 to 74, you may be eligible for a free NHS Health Check. It’s a quick, routine appointment that looks at your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and type 2 diabetes.

Even if you feel fine, it’s worth getting checked – these conditions often don’t show symptoms early on.

👉 Check if you’re eligible and how to book an NHS Health Check.

Anyone over 40 can also get their blood pressure checked by a local Pharmacist. It’s free, and you don’t need an appointment.

Prostate Cancer: Know Your Risk

Did you know your risk of prostate cancer increases with age – especially if you’re over 50, Black, or have a family history of the disease?

It’s important to know your risk. In the early stages, you might not notice symptoms. Check your risk in 30 seconds at prostatecanceruk.org/risk-checker. Click the image above to read our article about knowing your risk.

There’s no routine screening on the NHS yet, but you can request a PSA blood test if you’re concerned. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons with your GP.

Mental Health: It’s Okay to Talk

Men often feel they have to “keep it together”. But many struggle with stress, anxiety or low mood – and bottling it up makes things worse

Talking helps. Whether it’s a friend, family member or your GP, speaking up can really lighten the load.

Simple things like exercise, sleep, and staying connected can also improve how you feel day to day.

There are a lot of good resources and support options out there. Here’s a few good places to start:

• NHS – Every Mind Matters
• Newcastle Talking Therapies (you can refer yourself)
• CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably)
• Text ‘CALMER’ to 85258
• Movember – Men’s Health Week

Don’t Miss These Key Screenings

Throughout our lives, the NHS offers screening. The tests can spot health problems before you get any symptoms.

Screening starts before we’re born. What screening tests you are offered will depend on your biological gender and if you have a condition like diabetes. Take a look at the video.

These checks are free, quick, and could be life-saving. Remember, screening is for people who are normally fit and well. If you have symptoms, don’t wait until your next screening appointment.

What You Can Do This Week

Start with something small:

✅ Book your NHS Health Check
✅ Get out for a walk or short workout
✅ Talk to someone you trust
✅ Ask about screening or blood tests if you’re over 40

And if something’s been bothering you – physical or mental – don’t wait. We’re here to help.