Inequalities In Health

Men have a lower life expectancy than woman, particularly men in social classes IV and V. They are more likely to get heart disease or cancer, to have an accident, to be overweight or to have drinks or drugs problems. In short, when it comes to health, men finish a poor second.

This briefing paper was launched at the House of Commons by public health minister Yvette Cooper demonstrating the importance of these issues to the Government. It sets out the various areas of inequality and identifies six groups of men as at particular risk: boys and young men, particularly those at risk or socially excluded; poor school achievers; heads of families; long-term unemployed; men at risk from work hazards; and smokers.

Written by: Trefor Lloyd

Published: April 2000

Extent: 12 pages

Online copy: available online in PDF format

Order by post from the Men's Health Forum, Tavistock House, Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9BQ enclosing a cheque for £7.50 (price includes post and packing)

Where to find out more

There are reports on the paper's findings at:

• BBC News
• The Guardian