Men's Health Week 2026

Men's Health Week runs from 15 to 21 June 2026. It's a week designed to encourage men and boys to book the appointment they've been putting off, raise the question they haven't asked, and stop assuming that feeling okay is the same as being well.

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The data makes this clear. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, men die on average four years earlier than women, are less likely to see a GP regularly, and are diagnosed with many conditions — including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and skin cancer — at a more advanced stage.

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What a Men's Health Check at a GP Covers

Cardiovascular risk High blood pressure and high cholesterol are among the most common conditions affecting Australian men, and both can be present for years without symptoms. Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar are assessed together as part of an absolute cardiovascular risk calculation. For men over 45, this is a priority area.

Blood sugar and type 2 diabetes Type 2 diabetes is largely preventable when identified early, according to RACGP guidance. A fasting blood test gives a clear picture of where your blood sugar sits.

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Mental health Stress, persistent fatigue, low mood, and sleep difficulties are all appropriate topics for a GP visit. If needed, a GP can build a Mental Health Care Plan under Medicare, providing access to subsidised sessions with a psychologist.

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Skin cancer The Illawarra has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in Australia. Research by Dr Bruce Ashford found the South Coast between Helensburgh and Moruya had squamous cell carcinoma rates of approximately 856 per 100,000 per year — rising to around 2,875 per 100,000 per year among men aged 60 and over. Crown West Medical has a dedicated Skin Cancer Clinic with on-site biopsy and treatment. A skin check takes 15 minutes.

Sexual and reproductive health Erectile function, libido, STI screening, and prostate health are standard GP territory. Nothing to feel awkward about.

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Musculoskeletal health Persistent pain, old injuries that haven't fully resolved, and mobility concerns are worth assessing. Crown West sees patients for sports medicine and musculoskeletal injuries alongside general GP care.

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The Excuses — and What's Actually True

"I exercise regularly, so I'm fine." 

Exercise is one of the best things you can do for your health. It does not replace a check-up. Cardiovascular markers, blood sugar, and mental health are not reliably reflected in how fit you look or feel.

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"If I felt unwell, I'd know." 

High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and early-stage type 2 diabetes typically produce no noticeable symptoms. Many of the conditions that kill Australian men early are silent until they become serious.

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"Talking about feelings isn't for me."
You don't need to describe your feelings in detail. Telling your GP that things feel a bit off, or that you haven't been sleeping well, is enough to start a productive conversation.

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"I don't have time." 

A standard GP appointment is 15 minutes. Crown West Medical is open Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, and Sundays 10am to 5pm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the most important health check for men over 40? Absolute cardiovascular risk assessment — covering blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar together — is the most significant check for men over 40 in Australia, recommended by the RACGP for all men aged 45 and over.

Q: How often should a man see a GP? An annual GP visit is a reasonable baseline for men without known conditions. Men with chronic conditions or aged over 50 may benefit from more frequent reviews.

Q: Does Crown West Medical offer skin cancer checks? Yes. Crown West Medical has a dedicated Skin Cancer Clinic with on-site biopsy and treatment, at 330 Crown Street, Wollongong.

Q: Can I book a Men's Health Week appointment on a Sunday? Yes. Crown West Medical is open Sundays from 10am to 5pm. Book via HotDoc or call (02) 4228 4155.