A comprehensive 130-page report by South East Technological University in Waterford, commissioned by the charity Movember Ireland, reveals that many men in Ireland are dying prematurely from largely preventable causes. The report, titled “Real Face of Men’s Health,” shows that 40% of male deaths before age 75 are considered premature.
Significant Disparities Based on Socioeconomic Status
Men living in the most deprived areas of Ireland are 150% more likely to die before the age of 75 compared to those in more affluent areas. The economic cost of men’s ill health is estimated at over €1 billion annually, with approximately €760 million considered preventable.
Major Causes of Life Years Lost Among Irish Men
The leading causes of premature death and years lost to ill health in Irish men include:
- Coronary heart disease
- Stroke
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Lung cancer
- Suicide
Barriers to Healthcare: Stigma and Reluctance
The report highlights a strong stigma around men seeking help for health problems. General practitioners (GPs) report common barriers for men such as lack of time, reluctance to discuss sensitive issues, and a tendency to delay medical visits. Many men believe they do not need medical check-ups or fear the impact of illness on their careers.
Health Engagement and Gender Differences
Research shows men globally tend to die younger than women but spend less time living with poor health or disabilities. Men are also less likely to participate in early medical screenings and preventive care compared to women.
Voices from Health Experts
Sarah Ouellette, Movember Country Manager, described the situation as “dire” and called the report groundbreaking. Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, she emphasized that men are often reluctant patients who may only open up during the final minutes of a short GP appointment.
Ouellette urged the Government to expand successful outreach programs and investigate why men are not engaging with early screening and healthcare services. She also highlighted suicide as the leading cause of death among young Irish men, labeling it a “crisis.”
According to GPs interviewed for the report, 97% had spoken to men experiencing suicidal thoughts in the past year, but only 14% felt very confident in providing support for these patients.
The Wider Impact of Men’s Health
Ouellette emphasized that men’s health affects not only men themselves but also their families, carers, and society as a whole, underscoring the need for increased awareness and better health interventions.
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