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The federal government is launching a “national conversation” to inform a future strategy on men’s and boys’ health.
Health Minister Marjorie Michel said in a news conference on Monday that these issues are “too often overlooked, misunderstood or ignored.”
“When we talk about health in this country, we cannot leave anyone behind,” she said. “Today, men and boys are at the centre of the conversation.”
According to Health Canada, the strategy’s objective will be to foster “supportive and safe environments, challenge harmful stereotypes, reduce stigma and encourage men of all ages to seek help when they need it.”
Starting March 2, Canadians can fill out an online questionnaire to help inform the federal strategy.
Input can be submitted until June 1, with the strategy expected to be released later this year.
“Too often, the message men and boys hear is to tough it out, to stay quiet and to deal with it alone,” Minister of Women and Gender Equality Rechie Valdez said at the news conference.
“But real strength is taking care of your health, showing up for the people who count on you and knowing when to reach out for help,” she said.
Partnering with Movember Canada to develop the strategy, the government is also calling on parliamentarians along with provincial and territorial partners, community groups and organizations to contribute.
According to Statistics Canada data, men in Canada face distinct health challenges, including higher rates of suicide, substance abuse and premature or preventable death.
The Current23:51A crisis in men’s health
Men are struggling – according to a new study on men’s health. New data from the Movember Institute of Men’s Health shows that nearly half of Canadian men will die prematurely – before the age of 75 – from largely preventable causes. Men also account for three out of every four suicides in the country. Former Health Minister Mark Holland and study author and UBC professor Dr. John Oliffe, discuss the systemic, social, and psychological factors behind these outcomes, and call for a national men’s health strategy.
“Improving men’s health would not only reduce suffering, but improve well-being. It would also strengthen our economy,” said Michel.
According to Movember Canada’s 2025 report called The Real Face of Men’s Health, improving men’s health in this country could save $12.4 billion annually.
Health Canada says that a focus on men’s health does not replace the important work underway to support women’s health.
“When we strengthen men and boys’ physical, emotional and mental health, we’re supporting healthier, stronger and safer communities for everyone including women and children,” Valdez said.
This announcement follows the launch of other international strategies for men’s health, including in Australia, Ireland and the United Kingdom.
