St. David’s Dewi Sant Cardiff is marking Men’s Health Week, 10th – 16th June 2024, with local charities and organisations sharing resources and offering screening information around a variety of physical and mental health conditions on Friday 14th June.
Participating organisations include:
· Prostate Cymru
· Bowel Screening Wales
· Kidney Wales
· Fast Track Cardiff and Vale, which offers HIV screening
· Diabetic eye screening
· helpu, touring its pop-up exhibition
· Plattform Mental Health
· Unguarded Warrior, offering breathwork sessions led by James O’Keefe
· Aortic aneurysm screening
Sarah Maslen, Manager at Fast Track Cymru, said: “Living with HIV presents unique challenges, particularly in the realm of mental health. It’s essential to acknowledge and address the emotional and psychological impact of HIV to ensure comprehensive care and
support.
“Mental health services in Wales often lack a clear and up-to-date understanding of HIV which can hinder effective support for those living with the condition. Stigma and misinformation persist as significant issues which directly contribute to poor mental health outcomes; addressing these areas is crucial for improving overall well-being.”
Ian Smith from mental health organisation helpu added: “We are thrilled to bring our pop-up exhibition to St David’s during Men’s Health Week. In collaboration with photographer Suzie Larke, we have created stunning images that highlight men’s mental health,
featuring Mo Jannah, Nathan Wyburn, Ashton Hewitt, Shane Lewis-Hughes, Men’s Sheds Cymru, and Dawn Stalkers.
“Raising awareness about men’s mental health is crucial, and we are grateful for St David’ support in our efforts to reduce suicide rates and improve men’s mental health in Wales.”
Steve Court, Head of Bowel Screening for Public Health Wales, said: “We are very pleased to take this opportunity to further open up the conversation around bowel screening at St David’s Dewi Sant Cardiff’s event to mark Men’s Health Week.
“Bowel cancer is the third most common type of cancer in men in the UK, but like many aspects of men’s health it can feel like a difficult topic to discuss. However, we all need to be more comfortable talking and thinking about this illness, as conversations
really can be lifesavers.
“Early detection by screening gives us the best chance of increasing the chances of treating bowel cancer successfully. We should all be aware of the signs and symptoms to look out for and feel confident we know where to turn if we are concerned.
“We look forward to meeting lots of men at St David’s Dewi Sant Cardiff to speak about this important aspect of their health.”
Helen Morgan, Centre Director at St David’s Dewi Sant, said: “We’re proud to work alongside and provide a platform for these dedicated organisations who work to encourage conversation and reduce stigma around men’s health conditions.”
The event will be open from 9am – 4pm on Friday 14th June, near Watches of Switzerland and Swarovski. Men’s Health Week is celebrated annually to raise awareness of the health challenges facing men and boys, encouraging early detection and open conversations.
For more information and centre opening times, please visit
https://stdavidscardiff.com/