§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to increase health awareness among men. [75304]
§ Ms JowellThe Department recognises that the specific health needs of men are an important part of the overall strategy on the nation's health, and factors affecting men's health were highlighted in the recently published report of the "Independent Inquiry into Health Inequalities" led by Sir Donald Acheson.
The White Paper "Our Healthier Nation" setting out our health strategy, to be published in the Spring, will acknowledge the high levels of avoidable illness and premature death found among men, and the need for men to improve and prolong an active and healthy life. The Department will also continue to fund projects that aim to raise awareness of health issues which are specific to men.