A new report from the Movember Institute of Men’s Health reveals that two out of every five men in New Zealand die before they turn 75. Most of these early deaths are from causes that can be prevented or treated.
The report, The Real Face of Men’s Health: Aotearoa New Zealand, is the most detailed look at men’s health in the country so far.
Men in New Zealand live almost four years less than women. The main reasons for these early deaths are heart disease, some cancers, and suicide. Suicide is the leading cause of death for young men aged 15 to 34, and men make up three-quarters of all suicide deaths in New Zealand. The suicide rate is highest among young tāne Māori aged 25 to 44, with nearly 60 deaths per 100,000 people.
“These are not just numbers — these are real people: sons, fathers, brothers, and mates. Their loss affects families, workplaces, and communities,” says Dr. Simon Bennett, a mental health expert and member of Movember’s Indigenous Advisory Committee. “Too many men miss out on the help they need because of long-standing problems.”
The report points out several reasons why men don’t get the care they need. These include ideas about masculinity that tell men to “tough it out,” and health services that don’t always feel welcoming. Six out of ten men say their health concerns are not taken seriously by doctors, and almost two-thirds say these stereotypes hurt their health.
“If we focus on the top five preventable diseases affecting men, New Zealand could save $917 million each year,” says Professor Simon Rice, head of the Movember Institute. “We already have the answers — now we need to act.”
Movember wants the New Zealand Government to create a Men’s Health Strategy that works with Māori and focuses on fairness and partnership. The goal is to improve health services and policies so men can live longer, healthier lives.
“This is a chance to make a real difference for men’s health in New Zealand,” says Professor Rice. “Healthier men mean healthier families and stronger communities.”
About Movember
Movember started in Australia in 2003 and has grown into a global charity focused on men’s health. It has raised over AUD $1.83 billion to fund more than 1,300 health projects worldwide. Movember works on cancer research, mental health, and suicide prevention. Their aim is to help men recognize when they need support, improve healthcare services, and encourage more people to get involved. Together, they want men to live longer and healthier lives.
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