News

Irish Farmers told to kickstart personal health initiative

Farmers across the country are being advised to check their health status as Men’s Health Week runs from 14 to 20 June.

The initiative is being supported by Teagasc, through its research, advisory, education, training and media programmes.

Research carried out by the farming body shows that farmers in Ireland experience five times higher cardiovascular; three times higher cancer rates; and seven times higher mortality in the working age range than ‘white collar’ workers.

Teagasc Health and Safety Specialist, Dr John McNamara, said recent research indicates that farmers give health issues less attention than aspects of safety implementation.

“Men’s Health Week is a great time to kickstart a personal health initiative. Pick one or a couple of health initiatives that need to be worked on; there is a wide range of information available from the HSE and a farmer health booklet ‘Fit for Farming’ is available on the website;” he added.

Dr McNamara said there would be more opportunities for physical exercise and social engagement over the summer months as the economy opens up from the Covid-19 pandemic. 

“Getting a regular health check by a medical doctor is a vital cornerstone to maintaining health as it allows issues to be monitored and picked up before progressing to serious issues.”

LSL News.

Advertisement