Aboriginal Men’s Health and Well-Being Information Day

“By any indicators, Aboriginal health levels lag far behind those of mainstream society and Aboriginal men have the lowest life expectancy and poorest health rates of all Australians.”

“Increasing men’s awareness of health issues is fundamental to improving Aboriginal mens health.” Babana Chairman Mark Spinks said.

“However it is also important for Aboriginal men to have a say about the way in which health messages are delivered.”

“Services and solutions to Aboriginal men’s health issues are still being developed by government without input from and consultation with Aboriginal men.”

“Aboriginal communities and Aboriginal men need to be given opportunities to help develop practical solutions to the issues affecting themselves and their families.”

“Culturally appropriate men’s groups, men’s spaces, timeout spaces and healing centres are an important part of the solution. These places allow Aboriginal men to support each other and provide a safe environment where men can discuss issues affecting themselves, their families and their communities.”

“Genuine partnerships between Aboriginal people and governments should promote self determination and culturally appropriate capacity building and well-being among Aboriginal people while delivering much needed dividends to the wider community.’ Mr Spinks said.

Speakers talked about the need for men to have primary health screening checks including blood pressure and blood sugar tests etc and initiatives to further men’s general health and wellbeing.

Participants were provided with information on a range of health issues including:

• dietary health;
• general health and wellbeing;
• information about testicular, prostate and other cancers;
• tobacco and drug use and alcohol misuse;
• sexual health; and
• relaxation and meditation techniques.

The Men’s Health Information Day was hosted by the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group in partnership with the Aboriginal Medical Service and the Tribal Warrior Maritime Training and

Aboriginal Cultural Cruises; with assistance provided by South Eastern Sydney NSW Health; Mission Australia; CareConnect; and Medicare Australia.

For More Information Contact: Mark Spinks, 0411 282 917 www.treocom.net/babana/