Men’s Health Week, from 15 to 21 June 2026, aims to raise awareness of the health issues which impact men and encourage men to seek help to address any health concerns that they may be experiencing.
The Men’s Health Forum organises Men’s Health Week, and this year’s theme, “Men and Pharmacy,” highlights the important role pharmacies can play in supporting men’s health and wellbeing. Early detection and intervention are vital in preventing and managing conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Yet many men delay seeking help or aren’t sure where to go—making local pharmacies a simple, accessible starting point, with no appointment needed and no pressure.
Cllr Bannon, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, said:
“We understand talking about health isn’t always easy for men, which is why Men’s Health Week is important. It’s an opportunity to encourage open conversations and help men take positive steps to look after their physical and mental health. Community pharmacies can play a vital role too—offering accessible, informal support and advice without the need for an appointment. Together, we can break down stigma and support men to take control of their health.”
Men’s cancers
In the UK, about 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
The three main risk factors for getting prostate cancer are getting older (it mainly affects men aged 50 or over), having a family history of prostate cancer and being black.
If you have any of the risk factors, or have concerns, speak to your GP. They can talk to you about your risk, and about the tests that are used to diagnose prostate cancer.
Most men with early prostate cancer don’t have any signs or symptoms. If you do notice changes in the way you urinate, this is more likely to be a sign of a very common non-cancerous problem called an enlarged prostate, or another health problem. But it’s still a good idea to get it checked out.
Testicular cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in young men. It is a highly treatable cancer if diagnosed and treated early.
Regular checks video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvrmnNVUvEU&feature=emb_title
Regular checks can help detect any early changes – changes in shape, or size, or a lump that wasn’t there before – and if something doesn’t seem right make an appointment to speak to your GP.
Know your numbers
A blood pressure check is the first step to preventing heart attacks and strokes. High blood pressure is often called the ‘silent killer’ because it usually has no symptoms until it’s too late. It can lead to serious health problems like heart attacks and strokes.
Once you know your blood pressure numbers, you can take control. If your numbers are high, you can start making healthy changes or take medicines to lower them. The power is in your hands, and knowing your numbers can save your life.
You can get your blood pressure checked for free at your local pharmacy or ask at your GP practice.
AAA Screening
In England, screening for abdominal aortic aneurysm (also known as AAA) is offered to men during the year they turn 65. The screening consists of a painless, non-invasive ultrasound scan.
Screening can help spot a swelling in the aorta early on when it can be treated. The aorta runs from your heart down to your abdomen, it is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the abdomen. Men aged 65 or over are most at risk of an abdominal aortic aneurysm. You will receive a letter inviting you to an appointment.
Mental health support
One in 8 men have a common mental health problem such as anxiety, stress, or depression. Left unchecked these issues can worsen, however, there’s lots of information, advice and support available to help men look after their mental health and wellbeing.
Knowsley is home to several men’s groups, which provide confidential and safe spaces for men to talk to others about any health or mental health concerns.
Evolving Mindset provide a wide range of activities including men’s wellbeing clubs where men can engage in various sports such as football, boxercise, circuit training, badminton, and table tennis. These sessions also provide opportunities to talk and offload. You can find out more on Evolving Mindset’s website.
Flourish and Succeed community Men’s Hive groups are designed to support men’s mental health and prevent male suicide. The groups are held in different locations across the borough. For more information visit the Flourish and Succeed website or call 0151 245 6111.
Samaritans is a safe place to talk 24 hours a day about whatever is troubling you. Call 116 123 or visit the Samaritans website.
If you or someone you know are in mental health crisis and no longer feel able to cope or be in control of your situation and need urgent help, call the NHS 111Mental Health crisis line. NHS staff will then support you to get the help you need.
Available 24/7 – for people of all ages including children and young people.
Call NHS 111 and select the mental health option
For trusted health information, helpful resources and access to local support services visit healthyknowsley.co.uk