International Men’s Health Week 2025
International Men’s Health Week began in 1994 in the United States and is observed in the week leading up to Father’s Day each year. In 2025, it takes place from June 9 to 15. It is a time to raise awareness about men’s health and promote prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment of health conditions that affect men and boys.
In Australia, men continue to have shorter life expectancies than women and are more likely to die from preventable causes (Department of Health and Aged Care, Australian Government, www.health.gov.au). The National Men’s Health Strategy has highlighted that many Australian men face poor health outcomes, including chronic illnesses such as diabetes and mental health conditions, as well as sexually transmissible infections (STIs), which can lead to fertility. Men are also less likely to access health care and often have shorter consultations when they do seek medical advice.
Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs)
STIs are common in Australia and worldwide. Most STIs can be easily treated, and early diagnosis is key to avoiding serious health complications such as infertility. However, if left untreated, infection like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis can lead to serious complications, including infertility in both men and women. In its later stages, syphilis can also damage vital organs, including the heart and brain.
A sexual health check with a doctor or nurse practitioner can detect these infections and provide treatment. There is no shame in asking for a sexual health check—in fact, looking after your health is something to be proud of.
Liver Cancer
In 2021, 1,471 men died from liver cancer in Australia—almost double the number of women (819) (Cancer Australia, canceraustralia.gov.au). Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C are major causes of liver cancer, yet many people with these infections experience no symptoms for years.
Early testing, regular liver checks, and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of developing liver cancer. However, according to the Australian National Viral Hepatitis Mapping Project Report 2023, over 30% of people living with chronic hepatitis B were unaware of their infection. Additionally, 75% did not receive the recommended regular liver care, and only 13% were receiving the necessary treatment. Migrant communities were disproportionately affected by chronic hepatitis B.
Furthermore, despite the availability of a cure for hepatitis C, there were still 5,458 new hepatitis C infections among males in Australia in 2023—more than double the number reported in females (2,111 cases). (https://www.kirby.unsw.edu.au/sites/default/files/documents/Annual-Surveillance-Report-2024-HCV.pdf)We are currently offering free hepatitis B and hepatitis C tests as part of a national research project. If you are interested, please contact us at [email protected]
HIV
HIV remains a significant health issue in Australia, particularly among men. According to the 2024 Annual Surveillance Report on HIV, viral hepatitis, and STIs in Australia, 619 males and 96 females were newly diagnosed with HIV in 2023. Among people previously diagnosed overseas, 466 were males and 110 were females. Males also had a higher rate of undiagnosed HIV (8%) than females (6%), and people born overseas experienced higher rates of late HIV diagnosis compared to those born in Australia.
The good news is that with early diagnosis and treatment, people living with HIV can live long and healthy lives. They can have relationships and children without passing on the infection.
In Queensland, people on temporary visas without a Medicare card can still access free HIV treatment at public health facilities. Free HIV and STI testing is available at rapid.org.au, and free home self-testing kits can be ordered from www.hivtest.au.
For more information or confidential support with testing, visit www.eccq.com.au/bbv, contact us directly 3291 1214, or email [email protected]. You can also order free condoms at www.eccq.com.au/condom-request-form/.
Take time to look after your health—you matter.
If you are in Cairns, you can contact the team at Cairns Sexual Health Services by calling (07) 4226 4769 or emailing [email protected].
