Lifestyle Development - Men's Health

A recent World Health Organisation study of 40 countries found that the UK had the eighth highest rate of obesity in men and contrary to popular belief, more men than women suffer from excess weight. If present trends continue, more than three quarters of the UK male population will be overweight or obese by 2010 which means that now more than ever before, men must start taking a serious interest in improving their diet, becoming more active and generally having a healthier lifestyle.

The aim of the Lifestyle Development Officer – Men’s Health, is to promote and improve the standards of health and social well being for all men within the East Ayrshire locality. This will be done by specifically targeting men, developing their awareness of specific health issues and encouraging them to take advantage of the local services provided by the health service, local authority and other local agencies and will also involve close links to the CHIP project’s Lifestyle Referral Scheme in the hope of attracting more men to use this service. The LDO – Men’s Health will proactively target men in typical ‘men’s haunts’ such as pubs, bookies and football grounds and will aim to achieve enhanced health outcomes for men in partnership with men, local communities, statutory agencies and voluntary agencies. The LDO – Men’s Health will be able to provide open evenings in local venues, deliver men’s health presentations and campaigns, carry out consultations and lead activity sessions.

The Lifestyle Development Officer (Men’s Health) is currently involved in forming an Ayrshire-wide forum of those currently involved in men’s health and running a pilot scheme, in partnership with Kirklandside Hospital , for Mental Health and Exercise.

If you wish further information contact the Lifestyle Development Officer (Men’s Health) on 01563 578160.