ABS - Australian Social Trends, June 2010 - Men's Health

Men's attitudes towards health and health services are different to those of women. These differences are due to both biological and gender factors. Men are more likely than women to engage in risky behaviours such as substance abuse and dangerous driving. They also have a higher incidence of many conditions, and are more likely to die from certain causes.

Understanding these gender and biological differences is an important step to achieving gender equity and in achieving the highest standard of public health. In recognition of this, the Australian Government recently released a National Male Health Policy, providing a framework for improving male health across Australia, across different life stages and population groups.

The ABS article focuses specifically on issues of men's health and complements information on issues relating to women's health included in Australian Social Trends 2004, 'How women care for their health'.