28th May 2026

 

Men’s Health Week 2026

International Men’s Health Week runs from Monday 15th until Sunday 21st June.  This year’s theme for the island of Ireland is ‘One Step at a Time’ and everyone is asked to make progress – not seek perfection!

But why is there a need to hold a Men’s Health Week? Research clearly shows that these men experience a disproportionate burden of ill-health and die too young …

• Local men die younger than women do.
• Males have higher death rates than females for almost all of the leading causes of death and at all ages.
• Men’s poorer lifestyles are responsible for a high proportion of chronic diseases.
• Late presentation to health services can lead to a large number of problems becoming untreatable.

 

Everyone can do something to support and celebrate Men’s Health Week to encourage men and boys to lead healthier lifestyles, to be more aware of preventable health problems, and to seek early detection and treatment.

If you are planning to hold and event or would like to promote Men’s Health Week within your service, you can access information and resources from Men’s Health Forum Ireland.  Their website includes digital resources as well as event ideas and inspiration.  You can also request hard copy resources from paul@mhfi.org.

Locally, some events are being planned by members of Belfast Men’s Health Group with support from the Trust’s Health Improvement Team.   For more information please contact health.improvement@belfasttrust.hscni.net.