Why is it important to champion men’s health? Bupa explores the health issues predominantly impacting men and ways to assist them in achieving a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.
Health and wellbeing are important to everybody, but research shows that men generally experience poorer health outcomes compared to women.1
In the UK, men die, on average around three and a half years earlier than women.2
There are lots of different factors that contribute to this issue, men can often be hesitant to adopt healthy habits, seek medical advice when feeling unwell, or discuss their symptoms with a doctor during consultations. But there are actions employers and employees can take to support the health and wellbeing of male colleagues, ensuring they maintain both mental and physical health.
Create an inclusive culture
Try to create an environment that prioritises wellbeing, allowing people to talk about their health in an inclusive way and free from judgment. It’s essential to equip managers and team leaders with the necessary skills and resources to effectively assist individuals with health conditions.3
Discussing health and wellbeing may often seem challenging, but open conversations can really help people to feel supported in the workplace. Give people opportunities to talk about their health in a private and confidential setting is essential.
In the context of this article, it is essential to acknowledge that the terms ‘man’ and ‘men’ are used to reflect the evidence used by Bupa. However, the information provided may also apply to transgender, non-binary, and intersex individuals who do not identify as men.
For more information on how to start and support these conversations with your male colleagues, visit Bupa’s Men’s Health toolkit.
It can be beneficial to have frequent check-ins with managers and supervisors to facilitate this process.4
Cancer awareness
Statistics show that men have a higher risk of developing cancer and, unfortunately, a higher likelihood of dying from it. There is a tendency among men to delay medical consultations when cancer symptoms arise.
However, early diagnosis can greatly enhance treatment effectiveness. Therefore, it’s vital to promote knowledge about less discussed cancers, including prostate, testicular, and penile cancers, to encourage timely healthcare intervention6.
It is essential for businesses to promote participation in cancer screening programs, even allowing for employees to attend appointments within working hours when possible.
Businesses can also play a major role in raising awareness by taking part in events such as Movember or prostate cancer awareness month, to spread awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancer and how to check for them. They can also signpost to relevant charities and organisations which can provide information and support.
Stop smoking
The likelihood of smoking is higher among men compared to women.5
Assisting individuals in quitting smoking can significantly diminish their health risks. It’s recommended that companies formulate a policy that encourages smoking cessation and to permit employees to use support services within working hours where possible6. Additionally, businesses can advocate for both local and online support to stop smoking, including the NHS Smokefree online platform and support line.
Healthier eating
Research indicates that a significant number of men in the UK consume excessive amounts of salt and saturated fats, while their intake of fruits and vegetables is below recommended levels.7
Proper nutrition is essential not just for overall health, but it also enhances concentration and work efficiency.8
Businesses should provide spaces where employees can buy and consume nutritious meals at a reasonable price, while also allowing people to store and heat up food they bring from home. It’s also beneficial for companies to promote taking lunch breaks away from the workstation.9
Support access to healthcare
There are a variety of methods that organisations can employ to improve health service accessibility for their male employees. Ensuring easy access to GP visits, cancer detection programs, and mental health counselling are some of the key ways to support men’s health initiatives.
In the workplace, it’s essential to communicate the right points of contact for any health-related queries. Organisations can play a pivotal role in motivating staff to promptly seek assistance for any health issues. They should provide flexibility regarding appointment times for healthcare, as much as circumstances allow, and clearly communicate the point of contact for health matters at work, whether it be an occupational health nurse10 or someone from HR4.
Make it clear how to access these services when working from home. Also, advocate for more convenient choices, including community-based screening efforts, online health consultations, and online support services.
If you would like more information on supporting the health of your male colleagues and what it means for businesses, visit Bupa’s Men’s Health toolkit.
References
1. Baker, Peter, et al. “The men’s health gap: men must be included in the global health equity agenda.” Bulletin of the World Health Organization 92 (2014): 618-620. doi: 10.2471/BLT.13.132795
2. National life tables – life expectancy in the UK: 2017 to 2019. Office for National Statistics. www.ons.gov.uk 24 September 2020
3. Employee health and well-being: Recommendations for employers. Chartered Institute of Personnel Development. www.cipd.co.uk, accessed 17 November 2020
4. People managers’ guide to mental health. Chartered Institute of Personnel Development. www.cipd.co.uk, published September 2018
5. Adult smoking habits in the UK: 2018. www.ons.gov.uk Office for National Statistics
6. Smoking: workplace interventions. National Institute for Health & Care Excellence (NICE) www.nice.org.uk published 25 April 2007
7. Men. British Nutrition Foundation. www.nutrition.org.uk accessed 06 November 2020
8. BDA Work Ready Programme. British Dietetic Association. www.bdaworkready.co.uk published October 2015
9. Physical activity, healthy eating and healthier weight: a toolkit for employers. Business in the Community www.bitc.org.uk accessed 06 November 2020
10. Occupational health. Chartered Institute of Personnel Development www.cipd.co.uk published 4 June 2020
