The reasons are largely preventable, meaning this doesn’t have to be the case and there is more that we can do.
Movember places a significant focus on men’s mental health, as the statistics on mental health and suicide are alarming.
In Australia, one in seven men will experience depression in their lifetime, while one in five men will experience an anxiety condition.
Every day across the nation, approximately seven men die by suicide, with men three times more likely to die by suicide than women.
Though breaking down mental health statistics by gender locally can be challenging, according to the 2021 census, in the Moira Shire 131 people suffered from mental health issues, equating to 20.2% of the population of the entire shire. This is compared to 11,996 throughout the whole of Victoria, which equates to 18.3%.
In Federation, 49 people were reported to be suffering from mental health issues, equating to 16.3% of the population compared to 42, 533 people throughout NSW, equating to 15.3%.
Movember also sheds light on the prevalence of prostate cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian males.
It is estimated that over 25,500 cases will be diagnosed in 2023, constituting 28% of all cancers in men. While prostate cancer survival rates are generally high, exceptions exist.
Mortality rates have been decreasing since 1994, when they were at 62 deaths per 100,000 males. The estimated rate for 2023 is 33 deaths per 100,000 males, nearly half of the peak rate.
In addition to mental health and prostate cancer, Movember also emphasises testicular cancer.
In 2022, Australia saw over 950 new cases. The likelihood of a male being diagnosed with testicular cancer by the age of 85 is 1 in 181 (0.55%), with a five-year survival rate exceeding 95%.
Regional statistics highlight the importance of community support, as the incidence of testicular cancer varies, such as in Moira with ASR: 8.04 (3.02 – 21.42) and in Indigo with ASR: 10.28 (2.57 – 41.10). In Indigo the statistics show ASR: 10.28 (2.57 – 41.10).
These statistics highlight the importance of communities coming together, checking in on their mates, and fostering conversations about men’s health. It’s time to take action for healthier, happier, and longer lives.
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