Men's Health Week pop-up events planned as GPs say 'don't be embarrassed to come forward'
Shropshire GPs and health experts will be hosting a series of events as part of a week to promote men's health awareness.
From Monday, November 7 to Saturday, November 12, the local NHS, alongside partner organisations, is hosting its own Men’s Health Week to tie in with national ‘Movember’ charity work.
The local campaign aims to raise awareness of key health issues such as prostate cancer symptoms, abdominal aortic aneurysm screening and the prevalence of hidden mental health concerns.
Dr Jess Harvey, local GP and clinical lead for South-East Shropshire said: “We decided to hold a campaign across the county to highlight the importance of men’s health.
“We are holding four pop-up events throughout the week, and will be visiting local shopping centres and football matches. We’re really looking forward to chatting with passersby and giving advice where needed.
“GPs will be joined by pharmacists, mental health therapists, screening specialists and local cancer charity Lingen Davies. You can pop along to get your Covid autumn booster too, at our Telford Shopping Centre event between 11am and 4pm."
The first event takes place from 10am to 4pm on Wednesday, November 9, at the Darwin Shopping Centre in Shrewsbury.
It will be followed by a pop-up at Telford Shopping Centre, from 8.30am to 8pm on Thursday, November 10.
Saturday, November 12, will see events at both Shrewsbury Town and AFC Telford's home matches.
Both pop-ups will be from noon until 3pm.
Dr Nick White, chief medical officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin said: “We know men can sometimes be embarrassed of physical symptoms, but this is what we are trained for.
“We are urging men across the county to come forward and book an appointment with a GP if something doesn’t feel right – maybe you’re going to the toilet too often, have found a lump or are feeling down. We’re here to help.
“I’m sure we all know someone who is experiencing a worrying symptom and yet doesn’t feel comfortable seeking medical help. My simple message is this – there is no need to be embarrassed, we have seen it all, so please get an appointment booked with a doctor.”
